While in a local Bainbridge Island movie store yesterday, I was handed a pen to sign my receipt. That pen was a Lions Eye Bank pen and one that I hadn't seen since my days working as an Eye Bank Technician back in 2000. Anyone who worked at or was somehow associated with the Eye Bank knows which pen I'm referring to and probably has one lying around somewhere now. As I signed my receipt, I smiled to myself as I thought about my experiences at the Eye Bank and wondered how that pen found its way to such an obscure place. Working at the Eye Bank and around tissue donation, you learn to live life to the fullest and not take anything or any day for granted.
As I drove home, I reflected upon this further and it helped me put the standard life worries and stresses back in perspective and reminded me what was truly important. Then, this morning, while reading the newspaper I came across notice of Cathy's untimely passing and wondered if the pen was more than a coincidence. You see, Cathy was my boss and mentor at the Eye Bank and the person who embodied the lessons that I mentioned. Her warm spirit and thirst for life was undeniable. So despite not having seen her for many years, I was not surprised to learn of her accomplishments, humanitarian service, and unique international travels. She continued to live a rich, meaningful, and remarkable life and one that exemplified the ideals for which I and others should strive.
Jim Ruttler, Attorney
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