In Memory of Page Irby

[Guest guest]

Dear friends,

I am deeply saddened today to learn of the passing of Page Irby, a valued

friend, colleague, and founding member of Patients Against Lymphoma. See the

notice received from her daughter, Maggie, below.

Page was and will remain an inspiration to me in her approach to life. As you

may know, she was committed to helping others to navigate the medical system and

was an articulate advocate for becoming an informed and proactive patient.

Page wrote:

" When I was a child growing up I knew I wanted to be a nurse, just like my

grandmother. Then I grew up and became a nurse - just like my grandmother -

almost. In her days of nursing, doctors were thought of as 'God.' All of the

nurses stood up when a doctor entered the room, and one would never think of

questioning a doctor. And her generation of peers still don't question the

doctor - in fact, most Americans don't - we are a very passive society, relying

on our doctor to cure us.

.... Empower yourself. Utilize all resources available to you. I see a circle.

I, the victim of NHL am in the center of the circle with my oh-so-important

faith. My team members surround me - none more important than the other, but

all so integral...I embrace them. "

==

Page served as Director on PAL's board from its inception until the time of her

passing. Indeed, I'm not sure if PAL would exist today if not for her

steadfast encouragement. She'd say: " There is an urgent need for a group

that's focused on patient issues. " We could always rely on Page to provide

reasoned, patient-centered, guidance and perspectives.

On a personal level I just miss her: her voice, her life - everything about her.

Sincerely,

Karl Schwartz

Send condolences to:

The Irby Family

361 Whiting Lane

Virginia Beach, VA 23456

Memorial Services | Saturday, March 15

Virginia Beach United Methodist Church

212 Nineteenth Street

Virginia Beach 23451

==

This is Maggie Irby. I need to inform you that my mother passed away suddenly

this morning during her morning routine of getting ready for the days treatment.

I guess I would like to ask that her email address be removed from the mailing

group. We are in the works of preparing a Saturday memorial service at Virginia

Beach United Methodist Church.