July 24th, 2010 
admin 
I was so nervous. It was the first day of school…of HIGH SCHOOL, no less. The class of 1987 was the first 9th Freshman class of Andover High School. It was a big deal.
I didn’t feel like a big deal.
I walked into the girls locker room with my new gym clothes, which would inevitably become grey and smelly.
I chose a locker at the back, closest to the door of the gym. I hoped that there wouldn’t been many others in my Aerobics 101 class that picked lockers by me. I was shy and insecure and completely out of my element because none of my friends were here to get my back.
I sat on the bench in front of the locker, or in this case, bins and stared. A tall, lanky girl with wildly curly blond hair walked over to me. Her red, cupie doll shaped lips turned into a smile as she neared. She was light and bouncy and she glowed.
I smiled back. How could I not? She was infectious.
She introduced herself. I told her my name.
She picked the locker bin next to mine.
From then on, throughout the next 3 years (she was a grade ahead of me) we were best friends.
Every single weekend, I spent at least one night driving up and down Orchard Lake Road with her, stalking the boys houses that she had mad, passionate crushes on.
We’d pass each other in the hall and exchange notes that were written to each other in lieu of listening to teachers drone on about inconsequential things like math and science.
She was the one friend who remained constant and true throughout high school. We never fought. There was never drama. It was always easy. The way a friendship should be.
Everyone in my family immediately fell in love with Lori. Her personality and warmth radiated and drew people in. She was the only friend I was allowed to stay out with past my 11:30 curfew. (I know, I told you my parents were SO strict).
When she went off to college in Arizona, we tried to stay in touch. We’d write letters, talk on the phone and we’d get together when she came into town.
Even as we got older, every once in awhile we’d still get together. She used to come over to see my babies and also hang out with me when I was going through my divorce.
We never stopped being friends.
We just drifted apart. Our friendship faded, as many friendships do. We’d see each other out and excitedly catch up and promise to get together. We rarely did. And that was OK.
I look back on my high school experience and she is there, in almost every snapshot in my mind…a huge part of my teen life, always there in my memory and in my heart.
Lori was diagnosed with cancer, over 5 years ago, 6 weeks after giving birth.
She fought a brave and fierce fight.
She died today.
I can’t even express to you how sad I am. Sad that I didn’t get to say goodbye. Sad that I will never know if she knew how much she meant to me…always.
She leaves behind a wonderful husband who took care of her like a true knight in shining armor. And a little boy who I hope will always be able to remember how brightly his Mommy’s light shined.
She was a wonderful person who touched everyone she met.
Lori,
You will be so missed. Forever.
I love you, HB. Someday we’ll hang out again, passing notes and giggling while listening to Bryan Adams.
Love,
SP
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Thank you so much for writing all this about our amazing friend Lori. I’ll never forget that it really was she who first “introduced” us way before you and I ever met. She was the most wonderful, kind, loving and accepting girl ever. I miss her so much already and I know just how lucky we are to have gotten to know her and share a bit of this life with her.
Dani G´s last [type] ..This Moment
[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Melissa, Dani G. Dani G said: @rockdrool just wrote this great piece about our friend Lori, who we lost today. For Lori… http://bit.ly/cWMfSJ #cancer [...]
I felt a little like I met Lori via your words. She sounds like a great friend. <<<<<>>>>
I am so sorry about your friend. “Blessed are those who mourn for they shall be comforted.” It’s always so hard to know what to say to someone who is mourning such a great loss… but I know that it’s better to say something. What a beautiful tribute post you wrote about Lori. I am so very sorry for all who loved her: you, her husband and her little boy. I am praying you all will find comfort and peace in such a tragedy.
Gina Newberry´s last [type] ..Women Of Faith Wednesday- She Supports Me
Oh no. I’m so sorry to hear about your friend. She sounds like she was a wonderful person – and the world will be a little darker without her here.
Gigi´s last [type] ..Its Been over A Year Really
I’m so sorry for your loss. Your post was a fantastic tribute to her and the friendship you both shared.
One of the most difficult realities life throws at us….watching those we love be plucked away.
So sorry to hear about your friend. Time, fond memories and God’s peace will ease the pain eventually. Be thankful for the great times you had.
I am so sorry.
Marian´s last [type] ..ba-bomb
So sad! I’m so sorry!
Theresa´s last [type] ..Decorating Tips
I am so sorry for your loss! I will keep her and her family in my thoughts.
Tara R.´s last [type] ..Wearing red
I am so sorry to hear about your longtime friend.
MomZombie´s last [type] ..Lessons from the road
I am so sorry for your loss and for the loss that Lori’s family is experiencing.
Another Suburban Mom´s last [type] ..A Day of Suckititude
My heart breaks for you and Lori’s family. What a wonderful written legacy you have left for her son to read one night…when he misses his mama and wonders about her. He will see her through your lovely funny memories…
Nancy´s last [type] ..Saturday night on the porch
Lori was one of a kind. I’m so glad she was your best friend because you brought her into our family. She knew how much you loved her, because she loved you back. That was Lori.
Wow, I am so sorry to hear about your dear friend. I’m on the verge of tears right now. Your tribute was beautifully written.
LB´s last [type] ..Kindergartner and Future Inmate
Twitter: lonek8
says:
I’m so sorry that you lost your friend – I have no doubt that she knew how much she meant to you. I have never had a friend like this, and I can only hope that my children can find that special type of friendship that will last throughout their lives.
HUGS
#fuckcancer
Sorry for the loss of someone so close to your heart. I think we can all relate to a friendship such as that. I know I can, reading your words brought back similar memories to me. Thanks for sharing such personal pain, I think I will pick up the phone and make a call.
Big Hugs!
P.S. Rest assured she KNEW your love for her even though you didn’t get the goodbye you would have liked to get. Those friendships do fade over time, but NEVER die.
Terri´s last [type] ..Im still alive
I’m SO sorry for your loss, Melissa. Cancer can suckit.
Jill´s last [type] ..This Love-
A beautiful tribute. Friends really are friends forever.
Joni Golden´s last [type] ..The limitless world of Dr Angela Celeste May
Melissa,
Lori’s blog led me to yours. You’ve written a lovely, moving tribute. Thank you for sharing it. I am sorry for your loss, and for the world’s loss of Lori.
peace
Marlowe Robinson B’sheart
Twitter: thejackb
says:
Sorry for your loss. I have been down this road a couple of times. It is nasty, it sucks and though I have learned much from it I would have gladly remained ignorant so as to retain my friends.
Again, very sorry for your loss.
Jack´s last [type] ..She Is My Girl
crying right now she was such a great person!!
Twitter: lceel
says:
I hate cancer. I’m so sorry to hear of a young mother lost to that dreadful disease. We are all, every one of us, diminished by such a loss.
lceel´s last [type] ..Plotting Escape