I mention Chris often to friends and family. As a matter of fact, I used stories of his positive outlook to brighten the spirit of my father-in-law in his last months. They seemed to both be very much kindred spirits in that regard.
It's funny what you remember about someone when you have nothing but posts and blurbs on a forum to "know" them. In addition to Chris' bright beaming soul, I always got a chuckle out of his avatar and actually have the pic saved somewhere. It was a picture of an armored medieval knight riding a slick Harley Davidson V-Rod with a buxom beauty grasping around his back. The absurdity of it reminds me of Chris' good nature. The armored-up-going-headlong-into-the-wind-with-beautiful-babe-clinging-to-hang-on reminded me of his spirit.
He never gave up. Rare form of incurable cancer? He'll outlive it till they find the cure. Things not looking so good? Visit the gorgeous country of his girlfriend and breathe in life. Cancer takes the use of his legs? He admits to being a bit bummed but is apologetic for it and tries to take control of things again.
My God. I didn't know him for long, but Chris' struggle has touched my heart in such a way that I don't think I'll ever forget him or his story. In the end, he BEAT cancer. It took his life, but it never broke his spirit. In the end, something will take each and every one of us. However, it's how we go through life that matters. Do we slow down and fret when the end is near? Or do we smirk and crank the throttle down and ride headlong into the unknown unabashedly?
God bless and keep you, Chris. The world is poorer for losing you, but your heart and story lives on.
.. . Prayers sent . I wish his family the best ..
