Beth D. update

If you haven't heard already, Beth now has begun her eternity in Heaven with the Lord. Please pray for Matt, Gretchen, and Troy as well as for the entire family.

Below is an excerpt from Matt's web page

I have terrible news today, so I hope you have someone you love nearby. Just after midnight this morning my beautiful wife, the love of my life and the mother of our two beautiful children took her first heavenly steps. Beth passed from this world at 12:13am at Ohio State University Medical Center in Rhodes Hall, room 886. I was with her for the entire journey. It was difficult, but peaceful.

Beth began having chest pain Friday night, so we went to the Emergency Room to get her checked out. They found more fluid on her heart and recommended a transfer to OSU. Tests were performed and they found the fluid also consisted of tumor that was widespread around the heart. Draining the fluid was attempted, but unsuccessful and Beth was left with agonizing chest pain Saturday night.

Sunday morning we had a visit from Radiation Oncology hoping that they could do something for her. They informed us that the cancer was so widespread that the radiation would probably harm Beth's lungs and heart more than it would help. Surgery wasn't considered due to the nature of the cancer around Beth's heart and Beth's condition at that time. We were left to hope and pray yesterday morning.

Beth's brother, Jeff, came in the morning after running a marathon in her honor. He visited for a while and the rest of our immediate families had the chance to visit with Beth briefly by Sunday evening. Beth even got the chance to hold Troy one last time as the NICU nurse brought him over for her to hold. By Sunday evening Beth's breathing was labored and she was in significant pain. Beth is at peace in a place where no pain exists.

Beth was one-of-a-kind. The world lost a saint today. Someone who cared more for others than herself. Someone who valued love, family, and close friendships above all else. I will prepare her obituary for the paper and this site later. For now, know how much we feel your love and support. Thank you for all that you have done. I probably won't respond to any e-mails for a long time, if at all, as there are many things to be planned. Viewing hours will take place at the New Knoxville United Methodist Church from 2-4pm and 6-8pm on Wednesday. There will also be a short viewing from 10-11am Thursday morning prior to funeral services at 11am. A light lunch will be provided at the church after returning from the gravesite service. The Beth Dwenger Benefit will still take place on Friday for a time when all those who knew Beth can help each other get through this tough time.
Matt