When I moved to Panama City in the middle of my freshman year from Japan, I met Francis. And we quickly became 2 peas in a pod. Francis and I did practically everything together and most of my high school memories include her somehow. I remember going to her house, picking her up in my little Geo Metro, and we’d make a McDonald’s run just because we could. We’d always order happy meals just to be goofy. And goodness we thought we were the coolest people EVER when the Camaro came along. I remember the year we both made the Ramette squad together and we burst into squeals and hugged each other when we saw our names on that list posted by the gym door. We had band camps, bus rides, and competitions. And just about everytime I had french braided her gorgeous hair and did her makeup. We had Azalea Trail, antebellum dress shopping, and fake flower runs so we could make our hats. Calendar Girl wins that left us psyched every time. There were proms and prom dresses that were dubbed Barney. Frannie and Tornie- we were inseperable and the very best of friends.
Fast forward husbands, kids, and 12 years later life had just gotten in the way. It’s amazing though, any time we run into each other or have lunch it is like no time has passed at all. About a week ago Francis’s little sister Lois sent me a chat message telling me Francis had been diagnosed with a brain tumor. Before I knew it tears streamed down my face. I hate that my dear sweet friend is being faced with this. They found out yesterday it wasn’t cancerous and her surgery date has been set for November 30th. Please send as many good thoughts and prayers as you can for Francis and her family. There is more information about Francis’s condition on a blog started by her sisters Lois and Farris to keep everyone updated on how Francis is doing. You can read about it here
I was asked to meet them and get some pictures of their family. Here are some of my favorites from our time together
I admire you so much Frannie for how you have handled everything. You are the epitome of grace and elegance. If you need anything at all, I am here for you
As Brook and I were the best of friends for many years back then…I felt that Francis was my cousin too! I am absolutely thinking of her and her family now and am thankful that you guys are keeping us up to date. God Bless.
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