It’s kind of ironic that my previous post is about the support VA communities provide. Because only one day later our darling Miriam, aged 24, died whilst her father and I were away in the country. We rushed back home as soon as we heard.
I’m not yet ready to resurface to all the forums. Her funeral will take place next Monday here in Melbourne, Australia. We have family with us from around the country and they’ll stay on for a few more days thereafter. But I did want to let everyone know how much we’ve appreciated their prayers, emails of support, phone calls, cards, gifts and flowers from all over the world. You have overwhelmed me with your love and support and if ever I was in doubt of just how many people really connected and cared through our industry, I’m in doubt no longer.
Miriam was my stepdaughter and had been in my life since she was 5 years old and so she was a big part of my life and she leaves a big hole. She was so vibrant, full of energy, lived life to the full, always pushed the limits – she was our tomboy who followed her dad around everywhere. She was his mate and they rode their mountain bikes together and did so much together. It will be a long time before the pain and ache begins to subside.
If you’ve tried to get in touch with me, please bear with me for another week or so as I’ll be tending to my husband and our family but I will resurface and be back amongst you all again soon. Thank you all once again, as you have shown me another reason why I love our industry so much. And knowing that I’m home already has been such a blessing.
Kathie is the former owner of VA Directory and is former past President of the Australian VA Association. She founded the Virtual Assistant industry in Australia in the mid 90s, having already been operating a home-based secretarial service. Today the VA industry covers a multitude of office-based services for clients worldwide.
Levi J. Scarman says
Kathie, although there are no words that can really be said, my thoughts and prayers are truly with you and your family.
Levi
Beverly Mahone says
Kathie,
Even though I know you are a woman of God and your faith is strong, I also know your heart is heavy right now. May God give you a peace that surpasses all understanding and know this–all things work together for good to those who love the Lord.
My love reaches out to you across the world.
Joyce Mason says
Kathie, continued prayers as you and your family heal from this difficult loss. You have not been far from my mind since the moment I heard. May the wonderful web of support you have created by being such a devoted mom and friend hug you to its heart and give you strength.
Blessings,
Joyce
Lisa Marie Mercer says
God’s peace, Kathie.
Lisa
Sharon Williams says
Kathie,
I am so saddened by your loss and want you to know you and your family are in my prayers. Remember that God told your daughter it’s time to come home. She is sitting at his feet, rejoicing in his loving glow. His loving spirit surrounds you and your family and He holds all of you in his arms. He will not let you fall. If you need help in any way, call on us. We are here for you.
Stacy Brice says
Kathie..
I am so, so sorry for your loss.
My thoughts are with you, your husband, and your entire family.
Jackie Nees says
Kathie, I can’t imagine what you must be going through. I am so sorry to hear about your loss and I am sending you my thoughts and prayers that your pain will be lessened by wonderful memories she leaves you with.
PopArtDiva says
Kathie – Peace to you and your family in this time of sorrow. Know that she is not “gone” she is changed and in the hands of someone whose love is all encompassing and without judgement.
Pam Archer says
Dear Kathie,
I know that your faith is strong, but it is being tested now. Many of us are standing in the gap for you, and undergirding you with prayer. We pray that God will use this tragedy to draw others to the truth of the gospel of Christ. You and Graham must pull together at this time, and not let Satan have an inch. I am praying for you and loving you!
Betty Lynch says
Kathie,
I’m still praying for you and your family. May God wrap his peaceful arms around you and the family. We love you dearly and will be eagerly waiting your return. We’re here for you.
Blessings,
Betty
Vicki M. Taylor says
Kathie, You’re in my thoughts and prayers. I pray that your pain and sorrow be lessened in ways only God knows how to do. Gentle Hugs.
Melodieann Whiteley says
Kathie,
I know that nothing I can say will truly ease your pain. Only God can do that. I pray that God will surround you with peace, love, and strength. Know that I am here for you if there is anything I can do to help. Praying for you and your family.
Laura Jo Richins says
Kathie, I am so sorry for your loss. I’m sure you all will dearly miss her.
Rebecka Melson says
Kathie,
I’m so sorry to hear about your loss. My prayers are with you and your family during this trying time.
Virtual Assistant Forums says
Kathie – we love you and our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this very sad time.
Shari Sultana says
Kathie – my thoughts and prayers are with you and your entire family. We will say a special prayer for Miriam at church tomorrow. May God bless you all.
Sue L Canfield says
Kathie, our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Sue
Serena Carcasole says
Kathie,
I am so sorry for your loss. Losing a loved one is very diffult and I know that support is what keeps you going and it isobvious that you have much support everywhere you go around the world. I wish you and your family strength until you one day see each other again.
Serena
Kim Alvis says
Kathie
I am so so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
God bless!
Kim
Teri Dempski says
Peace and continued prayers for you and your family.
Craig says
Kathie,
I am so sorry to hear about your loss – my family is praying for God’s peace and love to comfort you and your family during this time.
Take Care,
Craig
Kathryn Little says
Kathie,
My daughter-in-law was deeply touched by your slide show. She said she could see so much light and love in her. We both mourn with you and pray God’s continued strength to you and your family. We hurt with you.
Love and God Bless You
Kathryn
Karen O'Bannon says
Prayers going up for all of you.
Lisa George says
Kathie:
I was stunned by the news and our family will keep you in our thoughts and prayers through this difficult time.
Peace be with you.
Lisa
Lorraine says
Kathie,
I was saddened to hear your tragic news but I know you will find strength in your faith and your friends.
I also hope that you and Graham do not attribute any guilt to yourselves for things said or not said, done or not done. There are rarely any easy answers or reasons why.
Lorraine
Janet Beckers says
Kathie you spread so much love and caring to so many people throughout the world. Please know that the people you have touched are grieving for you and your family. We send our love and caring thoughts your way.
Love
Janet
Jeanne Devine Bolewitz says
Kathie –
May God’s Peace and Strength be with you all. I’m so very, very sorry to hear of the loss of your step-daughter. My prayers are with all of you.
Jeanne
Brenda A. Jones says
Kathie,
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. All of you are in my thoughts and prayers through this difficult time.
If there is anything we can do to help you, please never hesitate to ask.
Love,
Brenda (White Rose)
Agnes Ikotun says
Kathie,
Your loss is very heartfelt. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Agnes
Dee Uzoka says
Hello Kathie.
I’ve just discovered your blog through http://www.virtualassistantforums.com. I am very sad to hear about your loss – l can’t even imagine what that must feel like. However, having two daughters myself, I am very saddened by your news.
Be strengthened by the fact that you had 19 years with her in your life and that youre relationship was wonderful.
Please accept my condolences at this difficult time.
Dee
Ching Ya says
I am truly touched, then and now, how courageous and strong your family has been. I wish I could find the right words to say… Your family will always be in our prayers. Your daughter will be greatly missed, I’m sure. May God continue to heal the wound, and bless your family.