Jim Dahmer, left, at team reunion

Jim was a hockey player and winter meant hockey season. Through the latter time of Jim’s illness, his hometown hockey team, the Waterloo Siskins, had a 60th reunion and he was invited to attend. He was determined to skate with his former teammates. Every week, we went to the arena and he skated, ever so slowly, around and around. Each week, a little faster, a little stronger. He made it to the game and skated several shifts, while oxygen waited on the bench. Very special memories were made as he was able to enjoy the game with his son Paul, who had also played for the team. We made it a family week with kids and grandkids. A beautiful, special time for all of us.

Winter always makes me think of Jim and the struggles he had and how he persevered through his setbacks as so many happened during the winter. He also took much pleasure in sharing his journey with others. While he was able, he was a much-loved Speaker’s Bureau member and was thankful if he could help even one person. We were fortunate to speak at a number of conferences and a highlight of each year was always attending the Family Forum.

Later, winter came to mean it was soon time to go south. Jim loved travelling while he was able. The breathing came much easier in the sunshine and by the sand, outside. He found fun wherever he could and winter took on a new life when you could spend some of it in shorts and a tee shirt!

Jim passed away in the fall, just before winter arrived and I will always remember the first snow that came after that … it was not as bright and beautiful as before nor as fresh and clear.

Every year, the first snow holds deep meaning for me and I’m reminded of those so very special times we shared.