Debbi and I had chats about being a female with HIV/AIDS, and the obstacles we face. She always had encouraging words for all-- this is one of the things
I loved about Debbi. She held life in her heart and soul, bursting from its power.
BJ, her husband who died in 1993, was always Debbi's angel, beside her all the way. She taught me much about grief and coping with it. She had a wonderful way with words, so caring, so full of love. Between CAM and AOL, we chatted
daily just to check on one another.
A few days before she died I received mail from her, enclosed was a newspaper article she had done. It was about "24 Hours in Cyberspace." an interview she had done. She had crossed out a section that they had put "Bill" for BJ and not "Bob". She wrote "Bob!!!!!" on the side. When I looked at the envelope that I realized that Debbi still had a stash of AIDS stamps, it made me smile. I sent her a email and told her "Bravo Debbi" and how much I loved the article. Later I checked my mail; there was a "thanks, it means a lot you love it".
Debbi, with her red ribbon tattoo on her wrist, was truly a blessing in my life. An activist I am, as was she when it came to HIV/AIDS issues. I look at the red ribbon magnet she sent me for Christmas this year. I hold the pocket card of "Footprints"
she sent during one of my tough periods. The cards she sent with angels, because she
knew my love for them. All of these just memories and keepsakes now, though Debbi
will live long in my heart.
Debbi would want all of us to go on and continue her work in HIV/AIDS issues and education (something she and I always had in common.) I hope that her passing will encourage more to be active with HIV/AIDS education and issues, as that
is what Debbi strove for in all of us.
Debbi will be greatly missed by so many she touched. I went outside in the sunshine today, first time in weeks. I could feel the wonderful sunlight beaming upon my face, I could feel Debbi & BJ holding hands again. I felt her love warm my heart, soul and face. I could feel her smiling down on each of us, glad we are continuing on. The sun was so warm and especially bright this winter day.
I miss and love you Debbi. I know we will meet again when it is time. Take care my friend, you will be greatly missed here on earth. Go fly with the Angels
and continue healing others.
With Love & Hugs eternally,
Vicki O : )
AKA Vicki Earls
AKA AngelPoz
February 28, 1996
In memory also of Vicki Earls (AngelPoz): 10/19/62--06/11/98
AIDS memorials are published on CAM's web site as a free service to those who wish to remember loved ones and friends. They are personal statements by those who are bereaved and in their own words.
