Robert Jerome Foster. It was beautiful as long as it lasted. The journey of my life. Farewell, farewell my friends, I smile and bid you goodbye.
A family in Sooke is heartbroken after the loss of their son and brother, Robert Jerome Foster, who passed away on Nov. 27 at the age of 23. Robert had been diagnosed with Nodular SclerosingHodgkin’s Lymphoma, stage two in October this year. His treatment required much collaboration and research because of the complications due to a rare condition Robert had been living with called Friedreich’s Ataxia. Although he had a 75 per cent chance of recovering from Hodgkins Lymphoma, the treatment was too much for his system, and he passed away on November 27.
Robert was never without a smile on his face. Whatever challenges he faced were inconsequential to his enjoyment and participation in life. The cliché is entirely applicable here: he had a smile that would light up a room. He was quick to laugh, generate a humorous observation, and commit to the day’s activities.
A celebration of Robert’s life was held on Saturday, December 7, at Belmont Secondary School.
Sherri, Robert’s mom has worked extremely hard and overcome unbelievable obstacles over the past 20 years while raising her five children. One of Sherri’s daughters also suffers with, Friedreich’s Ataxia, a degenerative condition that slowly robs a person of their ability to function in life. In addition, Sherri’s youngest son has a diagnosis of Autism. Her optimism and ability to support others, as she traveled a medically complex road raising her five children, is beyond remarkable. Due to the complexity of their family life, finances have always been a huge concern. My hope is that as a community we can come together to support this family, while they come to terms with their loss.
An account has been set up at Coast Capital Savings Credit Union. Donations can be made to this account at any of their branches located across the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island. The account name is “The St. Pierre - Boucharat Family in Trust.” For any information on supporting Robert’s family, contact Phyllis Lysionek 250-642-2937.
Phyllis Lysionek
Sooke