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LARA-LEA VIOLET AVERY ... my life has wrapped up at the age of 38. In printed paper, I guess I really have passed away. As a child, I looked forward to getting older each year and the different milestones that each year would bring, going from elementary school to junior high, onto high school, and learning to drive. Some times it felt days and time itself were simply long. As I got older and into my adult years, time did feel like it went by quicker but I found myself living more in the moment and presence of those fun and exciting youthful times enjoying time with friends, some travel, living on my own, being independent. I met my true love, Dale, my husband, at 23. We dated for five years and got married, truly each others best friends. A few years later, along came a much anticipated pregnancy. Unfortunately, I was diagnosed with cancer during that pregnancy, but was incredibly blessed to give birth to a healthy boy, Riley, the absolute joy, sparkle and miracle in my life. Then, time itself, really did fly by. With filling my days full of wonderful memories with my husband, son, family and friends, ...these past eight and a half years have by far gone by the fastest for me. The cancer journey since pregnancy, hasn't been easy, but continuous, compiled of surgeries, radiation, countless needles, scans, and over 100 rounds of different chemotherapies. Many days of feeling unwell. Even through those darkest days, I found light, in the support of those around me. The pure innocence of my son when I would look into his eyes. I found strength, courage and I truly gave it my all doing the very best I could. No regrets. I have had time to reflect on the past, make amends where I felt needed to be made, and found acceptance, peace and comfort. My happiness, came with acceptance. "I let it go. It's like swimming against a current. It exhausts you. After awhile, whoever you are, you just have to let it go, and the river brings you home." I did not choose for this to happen to me, but it was the cards that were dealt to me, the cancer just was what it was. Reality. Not in my life plan as a young adult. I lived, I loved, was loved, truly embraced memories I was able to create with Riley, Dale, and my family and friends. I wish there was more time'. I knew the day would eventually have to come ... my life has wrapped up at the age of 38. In printed paper, I guess I really have passed away. Good-bye to those I love. I know my love will live on through those memories. I leave behind, my husband Dale, son Riley, stepdaughter Steffanie, mom Beverley Allwood-Gustys, dad Larry Allwood, brother Chris (Cara Lee) and their kids, mother-in-law, Vicki Avery, sister-in-law Heather Sampson and her kids, stepsister Stephanie Gustys and her mom Kathy, (all of Nova Scotia), grandmother, Phyllis Baker, along with numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. I made a personal choice to not have a funeral, memorial or celebration of life service. A private immediate family interment will be taking place at a later date. Thank You to each and every one of you that has touched my life, enriching it in its own way. Thank You for your support, kindness, care, love and time. Also, I have to Thank all the medical professionals involved in my care over those eight years. Helping to keep me alive for as long as possible, my oncologist from day one, Dr. Piotr Chaykowski, Thank You for always giving me the positive encouragement even despite setbacks and obstacles, making me always feel there was hope' for more days. Think of others, and please consider signing up on the organ and tissue donation website and let family members know your wishes, or take time to simply donate blood to Canadian Blood Services. Help save a life and or help give another more time' in their life. For those who wish to sign the online Guest Book please visit our website. Chapel Lawn www.chapellawn.ca 204-885-9715
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 23, 2015
Condolences & Memories (21 entries)
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My dear friend Bev(and family). I've only just learned today of this sad news. If I were there close by I'd offer a hug. That would be a hug to comfort you; to feel the strength you have in these difficult times. Words alone cannot express my profound and deepest condolences and sympathies to you all. May you all find strength and comfort thinking of Lara and all that she has left behind. Find happiness in what she has left behind; though, it cannot ever be easy knowing she is gone. I always enjoyed hearing about Lara through Bev.....a mother being so proud of her daughter; telling me how hard she was fighting back against cancer. I think of these words from a song I listen to a lot: "....save some time to dream; save some time to love; for they'll remember what you gave." Reading the words in Passages today - that tells me all that is so very true for you all and what Lara has left you all with. - Posted by: Darren Leclair (Ben's good friend) on: Jun 16, 2015
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Dale, I am so grateful that Lara had you for her husband, that she had so loyal, strong and caring a partner. The life the two of you created is an inspiration for me. Riley, I consider your Dear Mother to be among the greatest Moms ever, a truly beautiful, amazing and wonderful person, as rare and as bright as a diamond. I consider myself blessed to have known her. Father and Son, together be strong, although each day will pass, love forever will last. My hopes are with you both. - Posted by: Rick Erhart (Uncle) on: Jun 09, 2015
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My sincerest condolences go out to Larry and Bev on the loss of their child! No one should have to go trough this and as I can attest it is a parents worst nightmare. You will always have your grandchild Riley to look to, to see how her life carry's on in him and you will learn to appreciate her great sacrifice as time goes by he will remind you of Lara in the most subtle ways, and you will remember. Rhonda and I have shared this experience and believe me that life does goes on and is reflected in our grandchildren. - Posted by: Gerry Trudeau (Uncle) on: Jun 08, 2015
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Bev and family, Our condolences for your loss. Bobby, Alissa and Charlie Trelka (Ruby's grandson and family) - Posted by: Bobby Trelka, Alissa and Charlie () on: May 28, 2015
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I pray, the comfort of our Lord Jesus Christ be with all. Everything what happened their is a reason. God bless you all. - Posted by: rodelio amparo (co-worker at Four Points Sheraton Hotel) on: May 25, 2015
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I can hardly believe this and I am so saddened by your passing. You were truly a great person with such a wonderful outlook on life. I will always remember your laugh and your smile. We had such fun family trips to Hawaii and Florida. I remember on our Disney World trip when we affectionately referred to our moms as little anchors because they were slowing us down from seeing all the attractions. I'm glad you were part of our lives, and I will always love and miss you cousin. - Posted by: Ron Gee (cousin) on: May 25, 2015
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Dear Bev, Dale and Riley – my heart is broken over the loss of your beautiful Lara. She fought so hard and so long to stay with her family, and I just wanted a miracle for her, but it was not to be. She was a true warrior and her determination, courage and bravery are an inspiration to all of us. She lived her life with such passion, and wanted to leave beautiful memories for precious little Riley. She is safe in the arms of the angels now, and no longer suffering. She loved you so much, and will now watch over you, as you face the days ahead. She was a bright light in so many lives, and will never be forgotten. - Posted by: Kathy Gustys () on: May 25, 2015
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I will miss you Lara. We have had such wonderful times haven't we? Hawaii was amazing and I will never forget us sneaking into the hotel room and whispering stupid zombie things in your mom's ear while she was sleeping. How many biway chocolate bar runs did we do? Load up on sugar and then back to school. The Washington and Louisiana IDs. So many wonderful memories. When we reconnected 6 years ago it was like we had never been apart. We talked for hours over dinner and enjoyed texting and catching up. I hope I made you laugh over the years with my weird sense of humour. It was so great about how much joy your family brought you and I loved seeing pictures of Riley. You will always be in my heart. You are a beautiful person. I love you. Christine - Posted by: Christine Sokaluk (Friend) on: May 25, 2015
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I am deeply saddened by the passing of my dear friend Lara. This beautiful woman, inside and out, was a wonderful friend to me, supporting me for over 10 years with her gentle and caring nature. She fought a brave and strong battle for 8 years. She took each day in stride, never really complaining, always feeling tired but always, always smiling! I will always remember her beautiful smile and wonderful spirit and all that she embodied. My time with her was too short but it was meaningful; she showed me love, kindness, compassion and insight. During her illness, I know that there were two things that kept her going, her son and hope, Now my hope is that she rest in peace knowing she did all that she could. My deepest condolences to Dale, Riley and Family! - Posted by: Amna Dunlukman (Friend) on: May 24, 2015
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Dear Bev, my heart goes out to you and your family for the loss of your wonderful daughter. May God and our prayers help you and your family through this very difficult time. My very deepest sympathy. - Posted by: Doreen Buss (friend) on: May 24, 2015
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I am so very sorry to hear of Lara's passing. She fought an extraordinary battle and touched so many along the way. Her never ending positive outlook despite enduring so many treatments and set backs was incredible. She is, was, the epitome of one who lived life to its fullest, savoured each precious moment with family because that is what is most important. From the first moment I met her, she changed my life, I am saddened I never found the opportunity to truly tell her just how much. My deepest condolences go out to Riley , Dale and the rest your family. - Posted by: Alessandra Cassano-Bailey (friend) on: May 24, 2015
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My dearest Lara...you taught me how to "just roll with things" as you would put it. To take life in stride and to not let things bother you. I will be forever grateful for having known you and for your unconditional friendship. Your positive attitude was truly inspirational. To Dale and Riley...My sincere condolences for your most unimaginable loss. Sincerely, Lisa - Posted by: Lisa Whalen (Friend) on: May 24, 2015
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Dale and Riley: We are so sorry for your loss. Lara was a great wife and mother and she had such a positive attitude during her long struggle with Cancer. We are all going to miss her so much. We went through our old pictures with Lara in them and they brought tears to our eyes as we looked at her beautiful smiling face. It was unbelievable that one person could have that much courage. We are all so sad about her passing, but we must remember the happy parts of her life and the love she had for Dale and Riley. Rest in Peace sweet love and thank you for all the wonderful memories. - Posted by: Allan & Trish Gee (Uncle & Aunt) on: May 23, 2015
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Bev we are all so sorry to hear about Lara. She was a real sweetheart. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers in this very difficult time. Your good friends Joan, Russ, Todd, Brad, Chad Galagan - Posted by: joan russ todd brad chad galagan (friends) on: May 23, 2015
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Our heartfelt condolences. Lara-Lea was a big part of the Kick Butt for Colorectal Cancer. As both spokesperson and silent auction chair she gave her 150%. We will miss her. - Posted by: Sid Chapnick And Fern Swedlove (friend) on: May 23, 2015
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I only saw your beautiful daughter and grandson once and I don't know you very well, but my heart goes out to you in your great sorrow. No words can lessen your loss. I am sorry. Sincerely, Judy - Posted by: Judy Smith (Lorraine Rerick's friend) on: May 23, 2015
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Lara, in the way too short time I had you in my life, you taught me so much and touched my life like you will never know. I told you often that you are the strongest woman I've ever met, and you taught me a passion for life...that nothing else is important as long as you have breath in your lungs. Your love for Riley, Dale and your family pushed you ever day to fight again. My last message to you was that I love you and miss you every day...and I always will. My love to Dale, Riley and Bev...you were the reason she was so strong. - Posted by: stephanie gustys (stepsister) on: May 23, 2015
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Lara you were such a wonderful person and mother you will be deeply missed by everyone you touched. Xo - Posted by: Rebecca Keddy (Family friend) on: May 23, 2015
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My heart goes out to all of the family's Laralee she sure was a inspiration to everyone that came in to her life heaven has gained a another angle may you rest in peace - Posted by: rose sartor (coworker ) on: May 23, 2015
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I am so very sorry to hear of the passing of a dear friend Lara. We spent many hours talking in the cold wind at the large play structure behind the school when the children wanted to play. Amara loves Riley and they walked hand and hand together as they played. And Logan too would follow them around. My prayers and condolences to you Dale and Riley for your loss. May you find peace and comfort in the memories you have of her. She was a remarkable strong person, never complained, always smiled and had lots to say. She is in heaven now spending time with my sister and Jesus. God Bless you. Vera Wiebe (Amara and Logan's grandmother) - Posted by: K. Vera Wiebe (friend) on: May 23, 2015
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Dale and Family, So sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. She fought an amazing battle. DJ, Marsha, Christian and Jillian - Posted by: DJ Avery (Cousin) on: May 23, 2015
