Doreen's Story

 

Our Liverpool Lass

 

Doreen Clements came from Liverpool to Canada in the summer of 1976.  In 1981, after spending five years in Cassiar in Northern BC, the Clements family moved to the lower mainland and have remained here ever since.  Doreen was special.  She loved life, she was a wonderful wife, mother, sister, aunt and friend.  Doreen loved fashion, music, dancing and the many beautiful gardens that she nurtured especially her roses.  Her garden was a peaceful haven throughout her time in Vancouver.

 

Over the past few years, Doreen faced many health challenges including two bouts with breast cancer, Grave’s disease and finally lung cancer.  She approached every illness with courage, grace, dignity and a determination not to be a victim.  She dealt with the final challenge by continuing to embrace the things that she loved, especially her family and friends.  She wanted to and succeeded in making positive memories for all those who surrounded her. Doreen was fortunate to have support from Roy, the love of her life, and from her girls.

 

Doreen was so brave.  She was not afraid to die but she did fear the process that accompanies the end of life. Throughout her last weeks, Doreen maintained her dignity while enduring intense pain.  When it became impossible to do this with only the help of family and friends the Langley Hospice Society was there to ease her suffering and help both Doreen and her family through this difficult time.  They ensured that Doreen and her family did not walk alone.  Doreen’s family is so grateful for the loving care Doreen received at the time of her passing and the continued support that the LHS offers the family as they work through the grieving process.