<p>One of the things that struck me about Sunrise during this years long ordeal was how no matter how difficult the treatments, how arduous the routine, how painful the surgeries, Sunrise never complained. She would describe what was happening in realistic terms but never self pitying and always with an eye towards moving on and towards the next better thing. Her optimism was infectious and her dignity, wit, and sharp mind intact to the end. She spoke of this community with love,gratitude, and warmth (although I only recently realized that it was cc that she was speaking of). And as you have all noted, her primary concern from beginning to end was the well-being of her family. We are all lucky to have known her.</p>
<p>I appreciate everyone’s thoughts and sharing of experiences with sunriseeast. What a blessing to know her, virtually and IRL. Reflecting on how she made herself known via her thread on CC, I find myself focussed on the word “power”. Sunrise has shared the power of words, love, the internet, community, charisma and family. She has shown us the power of strategy, thought, sharing and courage. She has revealed the power of stubborn pursuit and now demonstrates the power of transformation and knowing when to let it be. There are as many ways to navigate a serious illness as there are people on earth. Thank you sunrise, for lighting our paths, now and going forward. I think much will be done in your honor for years to come.</p>
<p>And yet another candle lit. So many lives touched and brightened by your reaching out and allowing us to accompany you on your journey. Thank you SunRiseEast. We have been blessed.</p>
<p>God bless all.</p>
<p>fourkidsmom, thank you for sharing the mi shebeirach.</p>
<p>Peace be with you, Sunrise. What a wonderful way to honor someone who has contributed so much to this community. I hope you and your family are comforted by this collective hug from a community that cares so deeply for you.</p>
<p>I wasn’t late, but I’ve spent the better part of the last hour reading every message of this vigil. I am beyond amazed and indeed, humbled by the strength and generosity of Sunrise’s family and friends for willingly sharing such a private and personal time with all of us here. The Us, virtual people who under any other circumstances would be considered strangers made to feel like family</p>
<p>All the posts, all the candles lit, all the outpouring of love, affection, respect, honor and on and on is to the singular credit of one incredibly brave and massively intelligent woman who, with her words, compelled us all to accompany her on her journey. She thought she came here for advice two years ago, but the reality is she taught us all so much more. </p>
<p>Sunrise made me want to be a better person. A better mother, a better daughter, a better wife and a better friend. And I thank her with all of my heart.</p>
<p>Hope I wasn’t too late. I was gone for a memorial service for my step mother.</p>
<p>I have lit my candle and sent my support.</p>
<p>Thank you, sunriseeast. Your influence on all of us here has been profound, remarkable. I am holding you, your family and friends in my thoughts and wish you comfort, love, and peace of mind.</p>
<p>Another candle lit for Sunrise tonight.</p>
<p>Goodnight Sunrise, in your honor 294 virtual candles from 8 countries have been lit, and many, many IRL.</p>
<p>[Group</a> <em>SR</em> Candles - Light A Candle](<a href=“Light a Candle - Grateful Living Practice - Grateful.org”>Light a Candle - Grateful Living Practice - Grateful.org)</p>
<p>May your memory always burn as brightly as these candles…</p>
<p>Peace to you and your family. My candle was lit tonight, sharing in the blessings.</p>
<p>I lit a candle earlier. I am so sorry that I am late to the vigil. I remember sunrise wanting to have an open house and that CC, would drop by. Sunrise, we are here with you<3</p>
<p>I lit candles tonight.</p>
<p>A candle last night; a candle this morning. The quiet, peaceful virtual candle. What an inspiring person. We have all been changed in ways small and large by knowing her.</p>
<p>Good morning, friends. The sun is not yet up here, but I am, thinking of Sunrise, her family, and our mutual friends. Your words last night were comforting and inspiring. Knowing that she is surrounded by so much love, admiration, and gratitude helped me fall asleep peacefully…pretty important as we look toward the IRL days ahead. Thank you, and may this day be peaceful and meaningful for Sunrise and her friends and family all over the country and around the world.</p>
<p>Every journey that begins on this earth will eventually end, but the footprints left behind will stay with us forever. Sunrise, our candles burn brightly to honor your life and to give strength to your loved ones during this time of transition.</p>
<p>andantino, thank you for your early morning words. We are all still here, as you sit with your friend and her precious husband and loved ones at her side in the hours ahead.</p>
<p>I woke and lit a morning candle.</p>
<p>andantino, I’m glad that we were able to help you get some rest. </p>
<p>Modadunn: “She thought she came here for advice two years ago, but the reality is she taught us all so much more.” So true.</p>
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<p>Agreed!</p>
<p>This vigil is a testament to the influence sunriseeast has had with so many people, including so many who never met her in person, and is also a testament to the meaningful support of the CC community. It really is very special. </p>
<p>I lit so many candles last night that my smoke detector went off!</p>