I wanted to leave a quick comment to initiate Megan's story to everyone to hear about. The people that knew her already know how special she was. Hopefully this will bring those that didn't into her world. Please feel free to post comments and stories that you want to share with everyone visiting this site. We all have something to add in her memory and she will never be forgotten, only desperately missed. Brian
Though departed from our physical world, my daughter, Megan, uplifts me every day. Her attentiveness to the needs of others is remarkable to me. Her patience in the midst of occasional disarray is unparalleled. She encourages and inspires me to 'go easy,' be positive, and to care. Getting inside people’s skin, moving around for awhile, and being able to feel what they feel have been natural qualities for her. Her actions and words in response to people’s troubles have opened us up to better ways to be. She listened, heard, and responded meaningfully to what others shared in good as well as tough times. Megan’s desires and intentions have always been good. Her heartfelt and insightful feedback, ideas, and suggestions have been so often eye-opening. Expressive she has always been. Inspirational she will always be. Such focus and caring have her words and gestures revealed. Pursuit of meaning for others and herself she has modeled. She’s always known how to make people feel good and be comfortable.
Indelible are her smile, her laughter, and her warm, inviting eyes. Seeing her smile, hearing her words, feeling her thrills, being uplifted by her laughter, and so much more enlivens me, and I know these qualities have enlivened others. Innovativeness and creativity she has possessed and shared abundantly. Unquestionable and constant has been Megan’s passion to create an atmosphere and home that are appealing and comfortable. Being and living happily has been her mantra, as she experienced so powerfully with loving sons, husband, sister, brothers, parents, grandparents, extended family, and hundreds of friends and acquaintances. A well-grounded anchor she has been and will continue to be for so many…
Megan glows within me as I awake, experience each day, and slumber off every night. Her genuineness touches me deeply. Her giving, caring nature and her love, so rare, are re-felt and treasured. So beautifully clear her qualities are within me. Her inspiration so easily shown raises me up. The spirit, grace, and beauty she revealed in a life so upbeat and full make me proud and happy.
Megan’s precious love for people and life prevail for all who have been fortunate to be with her, and "Though nothing can bring back the hour of Splendor in the grass, Glory in the flower, we will grieve not; rather, we will gain strength in what remains behind.” [Wordsworth]
I want to thank everyone for an amazing night on Saturday. We raised almost $12,000 for the foundation and accomplished so much in memory of Megan. I want to thank Bill and Joanna for everything that they did for us. I am so lucky to have them in my life. I also want to thank everyone that helped out with the night, and donations. It means so much to me and my family. The silent auction and raffle offered some incredible gifts back to those that were so generous to be there Saturday. If anyone has photo's from the evening I would love to be able to post them on the site for those that were unable to attend.
Please always Live, Laugh, Love as Megan would say. Brian
This past Monday (Sept 29th) Megan's Dream was part of a cancer fundraiser held in Greensboro NC. The fundraiser was held for a friend Bob Mackay that passed away from leukemia. It was held at the Sedgefield Country Club, the home of the PGA event the Wyndham Greensboro Open and was a beautiful day. His wife Barbara offered to have the putting contest in honor of Megan's Dream and we had a generous donation gift from Estee Lauder. Karen, Dwight and Debbie, a family friend, hosted the contest and then followed us around the course in a golf cart decorated with pink balloons and signs. As we approached the 18th green, a bag pipe was playing which gave me chills thinking of the reason we were there. I get these feelings often thinking of Megan and what she meant to me. Brian
Just checking in to give an introduction to the family that we are getting involved with to hopefully help them through their tough battle. Mike and Dorothy Smith live in MD and Dorothy has been battling Breast Cancer since January of 2006 which ironically was the same month Megan was diagnosed. They have 5 children ranging from the ages of 26 to 8. Their 9 year old daughter is Autistic which at times is another hurdle they have to overcome. She has stage 4 Breast Cancer which has limited the use of one leg because of the spreading to her bones and lymphodema has limited the use of one of her arms. I had a great discussion with Dorothy and her spirits are high and she is a fighter for sure. The thing that she really needs right now is prepared meals as she has a tough time cooking. We are in the process of getting a menu from them and will be sending meals to them. I feel so great about having the opportunity to assist Mike and Dorothy through this incredibly tough time for them. If anyone wants additional information or would like to help in their own way please contact me on my cell phone, 804-380-0801. I am so grateful to be able to do this and I know Megan is smiling with joy knowing that her legacy is doing exactly what she would have done if she were her in person. Love Brian
This is the first time I have posted a blog about Megan. It has been hard to deal with or even put into words the emotion of losing my only sister. I miss Megan and think of her all the time, at least 10 times a day, every day. The only reason it is not more, is because of my new daughter Morgan who never got to meet her Aunt Megan.
I will never forget telling Megan I was pregnant. Flying down to Jacksonville from Maryland, I was too excited to nap on the plane (although the new pregnancy was making me exhausted!). I had known for almost 2 weeks, and it had driven me nuts not to tell her...but we had already planned this trip...so I knew I had to wait because I HAD to see her face when I told her. Brian picked us up from the airport later that night and when we got to the house, and everyone was in the kitchen I just blurted it out. Megan was so excited and a bit shocked. I won’t forget the look on her face…it was well worth the wait. The next morning she told me that I was responsible for her not getting any sleep because she was too excited. I will never forget that trip and how excited she was to meet this little one…whom she “just knew was going to be a girl”.
My excitement was bitter sweet, because I knew that Megan’s cancer had spread. I wondered if she would get to be a part of my baby’s life for as many years as I was a part of my own nephews’ lives. I hated that I had those thoughts, because she was such a fighter and did not think that way. In turn, I never let on that I had fears of not growing old with my sister. I had always anticipated that she and I would have raised our kids together, vacationing together, swapping stories, visits, laughing, living life…and then one day we would be old, wrinkly, and gray (Megan, more wrinkly than I because we all know she loved the sun, me…hunched over with a cane because I have never seen a 6’3” old woman). Now those old women are only in my dreams, and in fact…she will always be that young beautiful woman who turned heads and broke hearts (prior to the love of her life Brian of course).
She was an absolute fantastic mother to her three boys. The best. She was the most attentive, loving, fun, creative, and protective mother I have known (in addition to our own mother :)). I learned so many great lessons through the years watching Megan. I learned that dancing around with your kids is the norm, being silly with them is expected, endless amounts of hugs is necessary, and that your children and your husband are the most important people in your life. There are so many lessons that Megan taught me, even when she thought I was not watching. Now, I am discovering that my sister and I are very much alike in the way we parent. You see, I paid attention to everything and I have a great memory. I have 30 years of memories to share with my daughter about her aunt and to share with Megan’s boys (who are the most wonderful boys and loving cousins…as Megan and Brian raised them to be).
I have so much more to say, so many memories, so many stories. For now, let’s just say watching my sister as a mother was a privilege and I hope to be half the mother she was. Motherhood was her crowning glory in life and the greatest tragedy in her death.
I just recieved the news this morning that our dear Megan passed away. I have had their Christmas card from last year on my sun visor and wanted to write, but never did. I looked at her beautiful family almost daily and thought about how she was doing. I had written her a long letter and mailed it with my Christmas card. Brian recieved it and called me with the sad news.
I want Megan's family to know how sorry I am that you have lost such a wonderful and devoted wife, a caring and loving mother, a trusting and joyful sister and a beautiful and heroic daughter.
Megan was my best friend in middle school and high school, and although we didn't talk regularly, when we did it was like there was no time lost between us. We would play catch up and talk for hours, just like we did years ago. I remember staying up 'til all hours of the night when we would spend the night at each others' home just talking. What a wonderful friend! I could tell Megan everything and anything knowing that it was okay; she was so caring and trusting.
How blessed to have this foundation. Megan is smiling that warm inviting smile that she has in the most comfortable place with no pain or sadness.
I have been thinking of all the wonderful memories that we shared all day. I will write more later. But for now, I just wanted to let Brian, Bennett, Grayson, Campbell, Chris, Craig, Katie (sorry, I still know you as "Katie"), Spencer and Tyler know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
I have been thinking about Megan's Dream - as I used the pen you gave me at the golf tournament last September. I love the logo and enjoyed visiting her website.
I am making plans for the 16th Annual Bob MacKay Memorial that will be held this year at Bryan Park Golf and Enrichment Center in Greensboro. This year, we will be filling TWO courses (I pray 256 golfers from across the US will be participating!). Last year, we gifted $1250 to support breast cancer research at WFUSM in memory of Megan. I hope you can play again this year and PLEASE, feel free to invite others to join you! September 28 - registration opens at 9 AM, shotgun start at 10:30 and dinner immediately following play. One of our supporters and friends of the MacKay Foundation for Cancer Research is donating dinner for our 256 golfers plus all our volunteers! NC Pork Barbecue and Grilled Chicken wing dinner with all the sides! What a fabulous gift!!! :) Our volunteers will again be bringing deserts for all to enjoy. We are inviting restaurants to sponsor Par 3 "contests" and while participating in the contests, our golfers can enjoy a bite to eat of some of the finest food in Greensboro. We will not have a silent auction this year, but I hope we can get some wonderful LIVE auction items and we will increase the number of or raffle items. Please visit our website to learn more about the tournament - www.mackayfoundation.org Thank you again for all you are doing in memory of Megan and helping those who have been touched by cancer. So many strides have been made in the battle against cancer, but so much remains to be accomplished. Please give my love to your family!! Hope to see you on September 28 .... I would love to have putting contest again this year in memory of Megan to benefit breast cancer research at WFUSM.
Hugs, Barbara
Barbara MacKay Vinson, President MacKay Foundation for Cancer Research
Not a day goes by that I dont think of our friend Megan Kennedy and the fight she fought. As we say we will never forget the tragedy of 9-11, so should we always remember Megan and her family and her precious boys. Thank you for visiting this site and thank you for all who help keep it up and running. Let's keep Megan's Dream Alive :)
It is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and I encourage everyone to be involved in something that can bring awareness to this terrible disease. Early detection can save someone's life. Megan's Dream is getting some attention in the North Florida area. We were contacted by the Jacksonville Beach Quality Suites Hotel looking for some pink ribbons for all their employees to wear so we donated some in memeory of Megan. Saturday October 17th is the Susan G Komen Marathon for Breast Cancer awareness in Jacksonville and the Megan's Dream Team is taking part. There is not a day that goes by that Megan isn't part of our life. Her dream will live forever.....
Megan was a very special person who handled her challenge with ferocity and calm...at least when we spoke. I'm a service person who continues to handle Brian's account and was very fortunate to have met her. Both of these folks are great. At this moment I don't recall many specific discussions except when we would talk about her cancer. Having a son who appears to have won that battle I took a special interest in Megan (both of these folks are young enough to be my children.) All I really wanted to say is whenever I think about what happened to this family I honestly ache. Especially when I think of how she would say how much she worried about Brian and the kids when she thought about the possibility of not being here for them. I really believed she was going to win that battle. TR
There is not a day that I don't celebrate Megan's life. Her birthday was July 8th and her sons Bennett, Grayson, and Campbell are visiting her Mother in Maryland enjoying every minute. Missing, wishing, and mourning are close relatives in my vocabulary these days. I miss the face to face contact, I wish it continued forever and ever, and I mourn the days she missed with her boys. I however know what is in our boys hearts and will do anything it takes to fulfill that.....If anyone is questioning love ask me...
I think of Megan all the time and miss her sense of humor and her love for her family! I met a 21 year old women today whose name was Priscella, and told her about Megan and now she will get regular checkups for early detection of cancer. I know Megan wants us all to spead the word of caution. I see Megan in my grandsons every day and know she is watching over them but wish she was here. We will live our lives in her memory for live, laugh abd love and that is her true legacy! Megan will always be in our hearts! Love to our family and live our lives to the fullest enjoyment!
The Christmas Holiday's have just passed and the boys have a great year with Santa and have a lot of New Year's resolutions. Their pictures on this year's Christmas card got a lot of attention from whom received it because of their resemblance to their Mother and myself. That makes me feel great to hear and know they will only resemble Megan more each day both inside and out....Happy New Year everyone..
October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and a very important time to remember those affected and to prevent others from being diagnosed. It only takes a small commitment from everyone to make a big impact on this terrible and deadly disease. Take some time this month and make someone aware, even if it's yourself. We miss you Megan.....Brian
Today is the anniversary of Megan and what she meant to everyone she ever encountered. If you find yourself sad today find a way to make yourself laugh, if you get angry at anything today find a way to give a hand, if you get frustrated today let it go....it's ok to have feelings but find a way to experience the positive one's more than ever....it is the way she would have made you anyway....BK
We just finished a flurry of 5 family birthdays that took place in a matter of 6 weeks and celebrated them together. My thoughts always fall to Megan and her perspective on the importance of celebrating birthdays with a cake. While I agreed with her that birthdays are important my thinking was that cakes were not...I would have gained 300 lbs if we had cakes everytime we celebrated recently...I guarantee Megan is baking as we speak and ready to shove a piece in my mouth....thanks beautiful...XO
Another day, another memory....sometimes waves can speak and this time they do. Each rolling tide is another reminder of her presence. Consistent calm and power while beauty over and over again. Embrace every moment while you can. Dolphins remind us that free spirits swim tranquil...love you Meg
The sun rises and sets everyday. Its what you do during this time that matters. Measure your day by seconds and make each one count. Don't let one slip away because you can't get it back.....BK
October has arrived along with Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This month for me is a time to reflect on how close we can be for a cure and how far we've come to realizing how dangerous Breast Cancer is. Wear pink strong this month and share special moments with the people you love. We love you Megan and I spend time with you everyday....Brian
Adventure was always something that Megan enjoyed and embraced. "Never stand still or you will be moving backwards" was something she always said. We were built to move forward which is why we have eyes in front of our head. Look for what we can do and make an impact on tomorrow for yesterday we learn from and has already happened. Our internal energy looks to make very day better and focus on improvement or you will lose ground on what you want, strive for, and really want to happen for yourself and lose you love. Raise others to a better place and help them achieve what they want and need then you will be raised with them....love you Megan....BK
i had a dream about you last night. we were visiting the same beach, and when we saw each other - we ran to embrace in the longest hug..you always gave the best hugs. we talked for hours..and I remember your long, wavy, dark hair blowing with the ocean breeze. and your laugh..your infectious full belly laugh.
i woke up smiling this morning..and still warm from the hug that I'll carry with me all day. thank you. xo
Thank you Kimmy for sharing that story....I have dreams like that often that keep me close to Megan...I enjoy going to sleep hoping they happen...Brian
Today is Grayson's 15th birthday...wow how time flies. It's hard to believe how big he is and how fast he is growing up. Dark brown hair and eyes like his Mother and he gets his creativity from her as well....defiantly not from me. Megan would be so proud of her middle son and now young man...One of the candles on his cake will be blown out for you Megan...
Unfortunately there has been a gap in updates, primarily because of my life changes which now have been resolved and shifted toward the current wind behind my sails....We are a week after Bennett's 20th birthday and 1 1/2 months after Gray's 17th. 9 years since Megan's passing which seems like yesterday. Gathering our strength like Megan did daily is what we will do to follow her dream and make sure the message and support is initiated with my revitalization of Megan's Dream.....Never Forgotten, Desperately Missed, Live Laugh Love...BK
Emily and I just got back from vacation to Alaska. We had an amazing time and continue grow as a couple. We recently celebrated our 6th wedding anniversary, and we always talk about the night that changed our lives for the better. Megan came down to Maryland after finishing a round of treatment, and the plan was to go out and celebrate her being in remission. I met the group at the Greystone grill and sitting across from me was this beautiful woman. Apparently I was staring at her, and maybe even creeped her out. I asked Megan who is that amazing woman. Immediately her eyes lite up, a huge smile came across her face, and I knew she was going to do anything to make us a couple. She loved the art of the set up, and on our way to the next bar (Cancun Cantina's), she told Emily that she had to date me. Even stretching the truth about how great of a guy I am :). Well, the rest is history, and we have been together for 11 years. I will never be able to thank you enough for what you have done for us, and only wish you were around so that I can tell you every day. I miss you dearly, as does Emily! Live Laugh Love... Drew
Thank you Drew for sharing such an incredible story which lives like with you and me in our memory as if it happened yesterday even though I wasn't there but heard first hand from yourself and Megan this life changing event. The power that Megan had to alter people's lives for the positive reverberates still today and will forever. She knew you and Emily were made for each other and wanted to be that Angel on earth as she is today to make sure happiness was fulfilled...thanks for sharing...Brian
Hi Megan, Just wanted to bring you up speed on a few things with the boys....Grayson received his 3rd Deans list certificate from Flagler College and will graduate at the top of his class a year early and is an amazing young man, Bennett is an awesome bartender at the pub here and still pursuing his career in acting and will some day achieve every goal he has set for himself meanwhile is also the assistant tennis pro at the club. Campbell is being recruited by some of the best colleges in the country to play golf for them and as I write this he is being recruited by Illinois, Auburn, Clemson, Lipscomb, FSU, USF, and many others.....on 6/15/20 he will he get offers so I will let you know what happens.....Overall the boys are doing well and you blessed them with integrity, maturity, and athletic skill. More to come so talk soon
30 comments:
I wanted to leave a quick comment to initiate Megan's story to everyone to hear about. The people that knew her already know how special she was. Hopefully this will bring those that didn't into her world. Please feel free to post comments and stories that you want to share with everyone visiting this site. We all have something to add in her memory and she will never be forgotten, only desperately missed. Brian
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
My Daughter’s Inspiration
Though departed from our physical world, my daughter, Megan, uplifts me every day. Her attentiveness to the needs of others is remarkable to me. Her patience in the midst of occasional disarray is unparalleled. She encourages and inspires me to 'go easy,' be positive, and to care. Getting inside people’s skin, moving around for awhile, and being able to feel what they feel have been natural qualities for her. Her actions and words in response to people’s troubles have opened us up to better ways to be. She listened, heard, and responded meaningfully to what others shared in good as well as tough times. Megan’s desires and intentions have always been good. Her heartfelt and insightful feedback, ideas, and suggestions have been so often eye-opening. Expressive she has always been. Inspirational she will always be. Such focus and caring have her words and gestures revealed. Pursuit of meaning for others and herself she has modeled. She’s always known how to make people feel good and be comfortable.
Indelible are her smile, her laughter, and her warm, inviting eyes. Seeing her smile, hearing her words, feeling her thrills, being uplifted by her laughter, and so much more enlivens me, and I know these qualities have enlivened others. Innovativeness and creativity she has possessed and shared abundantly. Unquestionable and constant has been Megan’s passion to create an atmosphere and home that are appealing and comfortable. Being and living happily has been her mantra, as she experienced so powerfully with loving sons, husband, sister, brothers, parents, grandparents, extended family, and hundreds of friends and acquaintances. A well-grounded anchor she has been and will continue to be for so many…
Megan glows within me as I awake, experience each day, and slumber off every night. Her genuineness touches me deeply. Her giving, caring nature and her love, so rare, are re-felt and treasured. So beautifully clear her qualities are within me. Her inspiration so easily shown raises me up. The spirit, grace, and beauty she revealed in a life so upbeat and full make me proud and happy.
Megan’s precious love for people and life prevail for all who have been fortunate to be with her, and "Though nothing can bring back the hour of Splendor in the grass, Glory in the flower, we will grieve not; rather, we will gain strength in what remains behind.” [Wordsworth]
With Forever Love,
Dad
Inspired we are...
I want to thank everyone for an amazing night on Saturday. We raised almost $12,000 for the foundation and accomplished so much in memory of Megan. I want to thank Bill and Joanna for everything that they did for us. I am so lucky to have them in my life. I also want to thank everyone that helped out with the night, and donations. It means so much to me and my family. The silent auction and raffle offered some incredible gifts back to those that were so generous to be there Saturday.
If anyone has photo's from the evening I would love to be able to post them on the site for those that were unable to attend.
Please always Live, Laugh, Love as Megan would say.
Brian
This past Monday (Sept 29th) Megan's Dream was part of a cancer fundraiser held in Greensboro NC. The fundraiser was held for a friend Bob Mackay that passed away from leukemia. It was held at the Sedgefield Country Club, the home of the PGA event the Wyndham Greensboro Open and was a beautiful day. His wife Barbara offered to have the putting contest in honor of Megan's Dream and we had a generous donation gift from Estee Lauder. Karen, Dwight and Debbie, a family friend, hosted the contest and then followed us around the course in a golf cart decorated with pink balloons and signs. As we approached the 18th green, a bag pipe was playing which gave me chills thinking of the reason we were there. I get these feelings often thinking of Megan and what she meant to me. Brian
Just checking in to give an introduction to the family that we are getting involved with to hopefully help them through their tough battle. Mike and Dorothy Smith live in MD and Dorothy has been battling Breast Cancer since January of 2006 which ironically was the same month Megan was diagnosed. They have 5 children ranging from the ages of 26 to 8. Their 9 year old daughter is Autistic which at times is another hurdle they have to overcome. She has stage 4 Breast Cancer which has limited the use of one leg because of the spreading to her bones and lymphodema has limited the use of one of her arms. I had a great discussion with Dorothy and her spirits are high and she is a fighter for sure. The thing that she really needs right now is prepared meals as she has a tough time cooking. We are in the process of getting a menu from them and will be sending meals to them. I feel so great about having the opportunity to assist Mike and Dorothy through this incredibly tough time for them. If anyone wants additional information or would like to help in their own way please contact me on my cell phone, 804-380-0801. I am so grateful to be able to do this and I know Megan is smiling with joy knowing that her legacy is doing exactly what she would have done if she were her in person. Love Brian
Motherhood...lessons that Megan taught me
This is the first time I have posted a blog about Megan. It has been hard to deal with or even put into words the emotion of losing my only sister. I miss Megan and think of her all the time, at least 10 times a day, every day. The only reason it is not more, is because of my new daughter Morgan who never got to meet her Aunt Megan.
I will never forget telling Megan I was pregnant. Flying down to Jacksonville from Maryland, I was too excited to nap on the plane (although the new pregnancy was making me exhausted!). I had known for almost 2 weeks, and it had driven me nuts not to tell her...but we had already planned this trip...so I knew I had to wait because I HAD to see her face when I told her. Brian picked us up from the airport later that night and when we got to the house, and everyone was in the kitchen I just blurted it out. Megan was so excited and a bit shocked. I won’t forget the look on her face…it was well worth the wait. The next morning she told me that I was responsible for her not getting any sleep because she was too excited. I will never forget that trip and how excited she was to meet this little one…whom she “just knew was going to be a girl”.
My excitement was bitter sweet, because I knew that Megan’s cancer had spread. I wondered if she would get to be a part of my baby’s life for as many years as I was a part of my own nephews’ lives. I hated that I had those thoughts, because she was such a fighter and did not think that way. In turn, I never let on that I had fears of not growing old with my sister. I had always anticipated that she and I would have raised our kids together, vacationing together, swapping stories, visits, laughing, living life…and then one day we would be old, wrinkly, and gray (Megan, more wrinkly than I because we all know she loved the sun, me…hunched over with a cane because I have never seen a 6’3” old woman). Now those old women are only in my dreams, and in fact…she will always be that young beautiful woman who turned heads and broke hearts (prior to the love of her life Brian of course).
She was an absolute fantastic mother to her three boys. The best. She was the most attentive, loving, fun, creative, and protective mother I have known (in addition to our own mother :)). I learned so many great lessons through the years watching Megan. I learned that dancing around with your kids is the norm, being silly with them is expected, endless amounts of hugs is necessary, and that your children and your husband are the most important people in your life. There are so many lessons that Megan taught me, even when she thought I was not watching. Now, I am discovering that my sister and I are very much alike in the way we parent. You see, I paid attention to everything and I have a great memory. I have 30 years of memories to share with my daughter about her aunt and to share with Megan’s boys (who are the most wonderful boys and loving cousins…as Megan and Brian raised them to be).
I have so much more to say, so many memories, so many stories. For now, let’s just say watching my sister as a mother was a privilege and I hope to be half the mother she was. Motherhood was her crowning glory in life and the greatest tragedy in her death.
I just recieved the news this morning that our dear Megan passed away. I have had their Christmas card from last year on my sun visor and wanted to write, but never did. I looked at her beautiful family almost daily and thought about how she was doing. I had written her a long letter and mailed it with my Christmas card. Brian recieved it and called me with the sad news.
I want Megan's family to know how sorry I am that you have lost such a wonderful and devoted wife, a caring and loving mother, a trusting and joyful sister and a beautiful and heroic daughter.
Megan was my best friend in middle school and high school, and although we didn't talk regularly, when we did it was like there was no time lost between us. We would play catch up and talk for hours, just like we did years ago. I remember staying up 'til all hours of the night when we would spend the night at each others' home just talking. What a wonderful friend! I could tell Megan everything and anything knowing that it was okay; she was so caring and trusting.
How blessed to have this foundation. Megan is smiling that warm inviting smile that she has in the most comfortable place with no pain or sadness.
I have been thinking of all the wonderful memories that we shared all day. I will write more later. But for now, I just wanted to let Brian, Bennett, Grayson, Campbell, Chris, Craig, Katie (sorry, I still know you as "Katie"), Spencer and Tyler know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Megan will be missed, but let her lagacy live on!
Much love,
Heather (Holler) Basinger
I have been thinking about Megan's Dream - as I used the pen you gave me at the golf tournament last September. I love the logo and enjoyed visiting her website.
I am making plans for the 16th Annual Bob MacKay Memorial that will be held this year at Bryan Park Golf and Enrichment Center in Greensboro. This year, we will be filling TWO courses (I pray 256 golfers from across the US will be participating!). Last year, we gifted $1250 to support breast cancer research at WFUSM in memory of Megan. I hope you can play again this year and PLEASE, feel free to invite others to join you! September 28 - registration opens at 9 AM, shotgun start at 10:30 and dinner immediately following play. One of our supporters and friends of the MacKay Foundation for Cancer Research is donating dinner for our 256 golfers plus all our volunteers! NC Pork Barbecue and Grilled Chicken wing dinner with all the sides! What a fabulous gift!!! :) Our volunteers will again be bringing deserts for all to enjoy. We are inviting restaurants to sponsor Par 3 "contests" and while participating in the contests, our golfers can enjoy a bite to eat of some of the finest food in Greensboro. We will not have a silent auction this year, but I hope we can get some wonderful LIVE auction items and we will increase the number of or raffle items. Please visit our website to learn more about the tournament - www.mackayfoundation.org Thank you again for all you are doing in memory of Megan and helping those who have been touched by cancer. So many strides have been made in the battle against cancer, but so much remains to be accomplished. Please give my love to your family!! Hope to see you on September 28 .... I would love to have putting contest again this year in memory of Megan to benefit breast cancer research at WFUSM.
Hugs,
Barbara
Barbara MacKay Vinson, President
MacKay Foundation for Cancer Research
Not a day goes by that I dont think of our friend Megan Kennedy and the fight she fought. As we say we will never forget the tragedy of 9-11, so should we always remember Megan and her family and her precious boys. Thank you for visiting this site and thank you for all who help keep it up and running. Let's keep Megan's Dream Alive :)
It is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and I encourage everyone to be involved in something that can bring awareness to this terrible disease. Early detection can save someone's life. Megan's Dream is getting some attention in the North Florida area. We were contacted by the Jacksonville Beach Quality Suites Hotel looking for some pink ribbons for all their employees to wear so we donated some in memeory of Megan. Saturday October 17th is the Susan G Komen Marathon for Breast Cancer awareness in Jacksonville and the Megan's Dream Team is taking part. There is not a day that goes by that Megan isn't part of our life. Her dream will live forever.....
Megan was a very special person who handled her challenge with ferocity and calm...at least when we spoke. I'm a service person who continues to handle Brian's account and was very fortunate to have met her. Both of these folks are great. At this moment I don't recall many specific discussions except when we would talk about her cancer. Having a son who appears to have won that battle I took a special interest in Megan (both of these folks are young enough to be my children.) All I really wanted to say is whenever I think about what happened to this family I honestly ache. Especially when I think of how she would say how much she worried about Brian and the kids when she thought about the possibility of not being here for them. I really believed she was going to win that battle. TR
There is not a day that I don't celebrate Megan's life. Her birthday was July 8th and her sons Bennett, Grayson, and Campbell are visiting her Mother in Maryland enjoying every minute. Missing, wishing, and mourning are close relatives in my vocabulary these days. I miss the face to face contact, I wish it continued forever and ever, and I mourn the days she missed with her boys. I however know what is in our boys hearts and will do anything it takes to fulfill that.....If anyone is questioning love ask me...
I think of Megan all the time and miss her sense of humor and her love for her family!
I met a 21 year old women today whose name was Priscella, and told her about Megan and now she will get regular checkups for early detection of cancer.
I know Megan wants us all to spead the word of caution.
I see Megan in my grandsons every day and know she is watching over them but wish she was here.
We will live our lives in her memory for live, laugh abd love and that is her true legacy!
Megan will always be in our hearts!
Love to our family and live our lives to the fullest enjoyment!
The Christmas Holiday's have just passed and the boys have a great year with Santa and have a lot of New Year's resolutions. Their pictures on this year's Christmas card got a lot of attention from whom received it because of their resemblance to their Mother and myself. That makes me feel great to hear and know they will only resemble Megan more each day both inside and out....Happy New Year everyone..
October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and a very important time to remember those affected and to prevent others from being diagnosed. It only takes a small commitment from everyone to make a big impact on this terrible and deadly disease. Take some time this month and make someone aware, even if it's yourself. We miss you Megan.....Brian
Today is the anniversary of Megan and what she meant to everyone she ever encountered. If you find yourself sad today find a way to make yourself laugh, if you get angry at anything today find a way to give a hand, if you get frustrated today let it go....it's ok to have feelings but find a way to experience the positive one's more than ever....it is the way she would have made you anyway....BK
We just finished a flurry of 5 family birthdays that took place in a matter of 6 weeks and celebrated them together. My thoughts always fall to Megan and her perspective on the importance of celebrating birthdays with a cake. While I agreed with her that birthdays are important my thinking was that cakes were not...I would have gained 300 lbs if we had cakes everytime we celebrated recently...I guarantee Megan is baking as we speak and ready to shove a piece in my mouth....thanks beautiful...XO
Another day, another memory....sometimes waves can speak and this time they do. Each rolling tide is another reminder of her presence. Consistent calm and power while beauty over and over again. Embrace every moment while you can. Dolphins remind us that free spirits swim tranquil...love you Meg
The sun rises and sets everyday. Its what you do during this time that matters. Measure your day by seconds and make each one count. Don't let one slip away because you can't get it back.....BK
Happy 38th Birthday......You know cake is waiting somewhere for you...Your boys blew out the candles for you honey....BK
October has arrived along with Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This month for me is a time to reflect on how close we can be for a cure and how far we've come to realizing how dangerous Breast Cancer is. Wear pink strong this month and share special moments with the people you love. We love you Megan and I spend time with you everyday....Brian
Adventure was always something that Megan enjoyed and embraced. "Never stand still or you will be moving backwards" was something she always said. We were built to move forward which is why we have eyes in front of our head. Look for what we can do and make an impact on tomorrow for yesterday we learn from and has already happened. Our internal energy looks to make very day better and focus on improvement or you will lose ground on what you want, strive for, and really want to happen for yourself and lose you love. Raise others to a better place and help them achieve what they want and need then you will be raised with them....love you Megan....BK
i had a dream about you last night. we were visiting the same beach, and when we saw each other - we ran to embrace in the longest hug..you always gave the best hugs. we talked for hours..and I remember your long, wavy, dark hair blowing with the ocean breeze. and your laugh..your infectious full belly laugh.
i woke up smiling this morning..and still warm from the hug that I'll carry with me all day. thank you. xo
Thank you Kimmy for sharing that story....I have dreams like that often that keep me close to Megan...I enjoy going to sleep hoping they happen...Brian
Today is Grayson's 15th birthday...wow how time flies. It's hard to believe how big he is and how fast he is growing up. Dark brown hair and eyes like his Mother and he gets his creativity from her as well....defiantly not from me. Megan would be so proud of her middle son and now young man...One of the candles on his cake will be blown out for you Megan...
Unfortunately there has been a gap in updates, primarily because of my life changes which now have been resolved and shifted toward the current wind behind my sails....We are a week after Bennett's 20th birthday and 1 1/2 months after Gray's 17th. 9 years since Megan's passing which seems like yesterday. Gathering our strength like Megan did daily is what we will do to follow her dream and make sure the message and support is initiated with my revitalization of Megan's Dream.....Never Forgotten, Desperately Missed, Live Laugh Love...BK
Emily and I just got back from vacation to Alaska. We had an amazing time and continue grow as a couple. We recently celebrated our 6th wedding anniversary, and we always talk about the night that changed our lives for the better. Megan came down to Maryland after finishing a round of treatment, and the plan was to go out and celebrate her being in remission. I met the group at the Greystone grill and sitting across from me was this beautiful woman. Apparently I was staring at her, and maybe even creeped her out. I asked Megan who is that amazing woman. Immediately her eyes lite up, a huge smile came across her face, and I knew she was going to do anything to make us a couple. She loved the art of the set up, and on our way to the next bar (Cancun Cantina's), she told Emily that she had to date me. Even stretching the truth about how great of a guy I am :). Well, the rest is history, and we have been together for 11 years. I will never be able to thank you enough for what you have done for us, and only wish you were around so that I can tell you every day. I miss you dearly, as does Emily! Live Laugh Love... Drew
Thank you Drew for sharing such an incredible story which lives like with you and me in our memory as if it happened yesterday even though I wasn't there but heard first hand from yourself and Megan this life changing event. The power that Megan had to alter people's lives for the positive reverberates still today and will forever. She knew you and Emily were made for each other and wanted to be that Angel on earth as she is today to make sure happiness was fulfilled...thanks for sharing...Brian
Hi Megan, Just wanted to bring you up speed on a few things with the boys....Grayson received his 3rd Deans list certificate from Flagler College and will graduate at the top of his class a year early and is an amazing young man, Bennett is an awesome bartender at the pub here and still pursuing his career in acting and will some day achieve every goal he has set for himself meanwhile is also the assistant tennis pro at the club. Campbell is being recruited by some of the best colleges in the country to play golf for them and as I write this he is being recruited by Illinois, Auburn, Clemson, Lipscomb, FSU, USF, and many others.....on 6/15/20 he will he get offers so I will let you know what happens.....Overall the boys are doing well and you blessed them with integrity, maturity, and athletic skill. More to come so talk soon
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