 In fall of 1982 my mom was diagnosed with this dreadful disease and it caused kidney failure. My mom had a kidney transplant in February of 1988. I was stationed in Korea but was able to be home in Miami the day after the transplant. Then in the summer of 1994, her kidneys failed again. After that incident my mom was able to carry on a productive life but her illness continued to get worse, so in January of 1996 I decided to move from Baltimore, Maryland, back to Miami, Florida so that I could look after her in her time of need, giving up everything for her. I have enjoyed the last three years we were able to spend with each other. Being a single mother raising one child, she raised very well. After entering the hospital on February 15, 1999, she was diagnosed with lung problems, but due to the scleroderma her blood pressure could not be maintained by her own body. My mom passed away of respiratory failure on February 25, 1999, four days after my 33rd birthday. Luckily I was able to share this time with her and I thank God for that. The thing that hurts the most is that she will never be able to meet her first grandchild, who is due on May 26th of 1999. 
In Loving
Memory of
My Mom | | So tell that special person how much you love them if you have not done so because tomorrow is not promised. I was lucky to tell her how much I loved her. My mother was the best friend and the best parent that anyone could ever have. Mom, your memory will never be forgotten. I thank you for everything that you have done for me. Your ever loving son, Keith. | | 