I had just finished having a double mastectomy with reconstruction ( sort of? ) and lymph node excisions. My muscles had also been cut and I could barely use my arms— 2 weeks out i think I removed my bandages for the first time to reveal a shocking sight- I was left maimed with apparent tissue death and no signs of reconstruction- it was heartbreaking — my husband contacted Eddie and Colleen came over right away. She sat on the edge of my bed and shared my grief- but we didn’t stay there- she graciously reminded me of Christ’s abundant love, His Sovereignty and the fact that He was with me even in this— that day my physical situation was unchanged but my eyes were lifted from my pain to my Savior and I had peace and hope even in my unknown. Like the paralyzed friend that was brought to Christ- she lifted me to Christ- my hope. We messaged each other often and I went through chemo and she was diagnosed with terminal cancer around the same time and then she left shortly for Idaho. Although we spent a short 6 ish months together as friends before she moved- we continued to message each other through out the years that followed. She taught me to see- past my pain and hurt and see His goodness even in my grief. I wish I had a photo to share but we don’t have one together- just only in my memory. She helped me to see.

I was crying and scouring the internet over 10 years ago for blogs on Christian singleness kate one night and discovered one written by Colleen. It was the only that I had ever read that truly resonated with how I felt. I emailed her thanking her and we became friends on social media. We kept in touch and exchanged phone numbers and voice notes throughout the years. I remember one night I was going through a lot and then I apologized for venting to her knowing she was fighting cancer. She told me something I will never forget. "Jessica don't ever apologize for that again. Cancer doesn't own the market of suffering." What a woman!! . She also told me that although we'll probably never meet in person, she cant wait to meet me in heaven one day. I love her so much and the impact she made of me, even long distance will stay with me for the rest of my life. Love you Colleen, I'll never forget you.

I kn9w Colleen's Mom and Dad very well. Nancy's mom was my favorite aunt and the Carter family is such fun. I have memories of how pound Nancy and Greg were of Colleen's life accomplishments. I was blown away by her fabulous voice when she sang at Uncle Jim and then at Aunt Billie's celebrations of life. Colleen, I am positive you made a major impact on so many lives. Just in you strength to continue! What a strong person you are. My heart goes out to your family. Rest peaceful now. Know you are loved.