When I was 15 years old, my father asked me to meet his new girlfriend. I was determined to hate her. For those who were lucky enough to know Cecy, it will come as no surprise that my vow of hatred lasted about until the appetizers were served and from then on I was putty in her hands. She had the unique ability to love everyone just as they were. Her unconditional love was on full display throughout her career at the Episcopal Church Home, for her son David, and especially through her infinite care of my father during his cancer diagnosis, treatments, and untimely passing.
But it is also a testament to Cecy that some of my favorite memories of her occurred after my dad’s death. If I had a nickel for every time an acquaintance asked me if my moms were lesbians, I’d be able to send Leo to college today. Nothing made me happier than family gatherings with my mom, Ed, Jason, Cecy, David, and Panda together.
She came to stay with us before her January surgery and the memories of watching her and Leo giggling and playing together sustains me in my grief right now. I loved all of her, wholly and completely. I know Cecy and my dad, Joe are together now. Very busy being reunited and having coffee on an Italian veranda – Cecy obviously double fisting espresso and red wine -- and dad making sure to keep all the wet, undesirable food away from the dry, acceptable food on Cecy’s plate. Man, she was a weirdo about food. I’m gonna miss her so much.
