Quilt #18 Beth Gish

Beth Gish with her quilt, which she named Duncan.

Quilt #18 was received by Beth Gish on September 23, 2016.  Beth was probably my first friend when I moved from California to Layton Utah when I was 15. I was drawn then to her charming, kind and funny personality.  A few years ago we reconnected via Facebook and at a reunion picnic and I feel as connected as ever.

In December of 2014, Beth's husband Randy contracted the flu.  He progressively got worse and was hospitalized as the flu turned to sepsis.   He fought valiantly surrounded by family and friends until his passing on January 17, 2015.

In Beth's words, "After exactly one month of suffering, Randy joined God while I cradled his head in my arms, our faces cheek to cheek, as I told him to fight, breathe with me. Our three children, his two brothers, sisters in law held hands around his bed."

Beth lost her partner after 30 years of marriage at the young age of 54. I have been so inspired by her strength as she courageously picks up the pieces and moves forward. Add to that  Beth has entered the empty nest phase of her life alone. It is a blessing that her children and grandchildren live close.

At my house in Hawaii.

I was working on this quilt when I read a post of Beth's. She bravely acknowledged the emptiness left behind when Randy joined his Heavenly Father. I immediately knew that this quilt belonged to Beth.

There is another interesting aspect to our story.  My own father passed when I was 15.  My parents were separated at the time and we were living in Utah, while he died in California.  I still remember the night he passed very vividly. I received the news and was truly incredulous.  I had just talked to him the night before. In my distress, I left my house and went to Beth's. There I was comforted and fed by my dear friend and her family (roast, mashed potatoes, green beans and gravy, how specific). Afterwards, Beth and I went outside and shot baskets as I processed the reality of the change in my life. She was kind and compassionate then as she is now.

Beth wrote, "One final kiss. This was calming,
I knew that Randy was no longer suffering and
was fishing with our Father."

Here is Beth with her
beloved Randy as youngsters.

I received the most beautiful thank you note from Beth.  In her words, "It's hard to type with happy tears flowing down my face! I am speechless! Each stitch on this beautiful quilt speaks of unselfish love!! The colors even totally match my recliner chair that I won't share with anyone, other than my grandson (true devotion). When I wrap myself in my Duncan quilt I think of this precious life gone too soon, but most importantly, I will think of you, my forever, kind, supportive friend...I live life not just for myself, but for him too (Randy).  I told him when he was leaving this earth that my heart would beat for both of us that that I would live life to the fullest." This is how my strong, courageous friend chooses to live.

Beth has raised three beautiful children, Joe, Jamie and Natalie. They carry so many of her good qualities.  Moments after hearing from Beth, I received a message from her daughter, Jamie, thanking me for putting a smile on her mother's face and how she was deeply touched.  Very like her mother.

I feel truly honored to offer my dear friend a physical representation of the love I feel for her.  I hope it brings her a measure of comfort and reminds her that Randy lives because of our Savior and that they will be together again. Beth continues to bless my life and the lives of so many.

Bre, Jamie, Joe at the gravesite

Bre and Natalie visiting Randy's grave.

Beth's grandsons doing what boys do.