Irene's entrance into this world was inauspicious, we almost lost her at birth, but the c-section saved her mommy's life, detecting that I had ovarian cancer. We had an inextricable bond from the start, and I feel this is why we never took each other for granted. Irene had so many medical problems early in her life, she spent most of her time in and out of the hospital or at the doctor's office. Irene experienced a total of 25 operations before the age of 16.

On May 25, 2005, Irene was diagnosed with medulloblastoma, a highly malignant aggressive brain tumor. Irene suffered a stroke, developed a rare meningitis, had to have a shunt placed, and had bladder damage as well. Through all of this, Irene never complained. She would say "Mom, I may be in pain, but I do not have to be one!" She was a distinguished honor roll student, a student of the month, and a citizen of the week in her hometown of Ambler, Pennsylvania . On April 23, 2008, Irene's brain tumor came back in both her brain and her spine. She always smiled even though she was in pain. She dreamed of going to Paris and growing up to be a learning support teacher. Irene loved school, reading, soap operas and movies. She was my only child and my heart is empty without her. As I always told her, "Irene, you are my hero, and it has been my honor to be your mommy. I love you forever."

On December 3rd, 2008, Irene Sexton passed away after a long and courageous battle with cancer. She is missed very much.

Written by Sandi Andreatti, Mother
Posted 01/2009

To read more about Irene, please visit www.caringbridge.org/visit/irenesexton