Thursday, September 16, 2010

Farewell, Darling Friend

Terri Lyn Folkman Grundvig
February 16, 1969 - September 10, 2010

Seeing this picture of TL with the spark in her eyes and shine on her cheek makes it hard to believe that she's not here any more.  

You know, every time I had a baby I had nine months to prepare for the arrival.  I spent nine months feeling sick or feeling large (or both), watching my feet slowly splat out like pancakes.  I spent nine months picking out clothing and diapers and setting up a crib and a changing table.  I got everything all arranged.  And then I'd go into labor, go to the hospital and eventually someone would put a baby in my arms.  And somehow, after all that, I'd be surprised.  What is this?  Who said anything about a baby? And I have to say, this is kind of the same.  TL told me more than a year ago that her cancer had returned and that she would not recover from it.  Over the ensuing months I watched her fight and suffer and deteriorate until over the past three weeks it was almost unbearable to see her.  And yet, when she passed, I could hardly believe it.  I've been walking around for almost a week now trying to process the idea that I won't be seeing my friend again in this life.  That she won't be popping in with lunch or to borrow a necklace.  I won't be calling her to vent about something silly that I know only she'd understand.  No more sneaking out to late night movies.  I just can't believe it.  I'm just aching right now knowing that she's gone.  Truly, I loved her.  We called each other sister friends, and that is what we will always be. 




"TerriLyn "TL" Folkman Grundvig, 41, ended her inspiring and courageous four-year battle with breast cancer on Friday, September 10, 2010. TerriLyn was born in Bellevue, WA to Robert and Patricia Folkman. TerriLyn grew up in nearby Issaquah where, from an early age, she developed a fervor for life. That passion motivated TerriLyn to establish friendships and embark on adventures across the country. TerriLyn was a fiercely loyal and devoted friend. She was also a tremendously gifted athlete, excelling in both track and soccer throughout elementary and high school. In 1996, TerriLyn moved to Salt Lake City, UT to pursue a career in massage therapy. There she met Adam Grundvig, whom she married in 1997. TerriLyn and Adam brought two beautiful and amazing children, Gabrielle and Ryan, into the world. TerriLyn was a loving mother who strived to instill in Gabrielle and Ryan the same devotion to friends and love for life that she had. On their four-year anniversary, TerriLyn and Adam solemnized their marriage in the Salt Lake City Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. TerriLyn is survived by her parents, Robert and Patricia; husband, Adam; children, Gabrielle and Ryan; step-daughter, Haley; siblings Kristine Christensen, Scott (Jackie), Gary (April), and Julie (Bryan) Roos; and numerous nieces, nephews, uncles, aunts, cousins, and friends who will miss TerriLyn dearly."


11 comments:

Melissa said...

So sorry, Rachel.

Carrie said...

I can't stop the tears. thanks for posting this. Wish we could be there for the funeral.

ghd3 said...

I am so sorry, Rachel. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, and especially with TL's family.

Gina said...

Bryon and I are coming tomorrow. And just reading this makes me realize just how emotional I am going to be. And yet how wonderful it will be to see good friends who we love and miss so much. I am so sorry she is not there to be with you anymore, I know that must hurt so much. You are wonderful, hopefully I will see you tomorrow.

Michelle said...

The sympathetic cliches never seem to be enough, but still better than nothing I guess...I'm so sorry for your loss. I've been praying for you guys and TL's family (even though I don't know them). I hope there will be some sort of silver lining for you all...

jefferies said...

Rach,
TL is beautiful. I'm so sorry for her passing and for the pain and grief you're feeling. I'm sorry for her family. They must be aching. I will pray for peace and comfort and joy to find you in this experience. I'm so grateful for ressurection, and I hope it gets here soon!
Lots of xoxo,
Kate

Kathleen said...

Rach,
I just saw her obituary yesterday and my heart broke. I'm so sorry for the loss of your friend. Just from my few encounters with TL, I know she was a warm, loving person and a friend like her is hard to come by. Praying for your peace.
Love you.

Unknown said...

I love those pictures of her - I have always thought she has the most beautiful smile and sparkle about her - it matches her personality! She was wonderful and lucky to have you as a close friend!

Jardinefamily said...

Thank goodness our friendships are forever and we get those bonds in the here after. What a sweet tribute Rachel.

Lis said...

Hello, you don't know me but I knew Terri Lynn on my mission in SLC many years ago when she had her first baby. I liked her and Adam so much, and I happened to think of her today. Your blog is the first site I found, and I am so, so sorry to hear she passed away. I appreciate your loving tribute.

Unknown said...

My Belated Condolences to her family! She was my neighbor on Lake Sammamish,just 3 houses away! Always cheerful and full of life! Mark Waitt