Carol Westfahl was a sister, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, but most of all a woman of God with a servant heart. She devoted her life to what matters most: faith, family, and friendship — to helping others and serving her community in any way she could.
After publishing this book, Carol spent a lot of her time delivering books to local book stores, where they were sold and helped thousands of cancer patients. She also did public speaking about her book and her experiences. In 2009 she recorded an audio version of the book, since she had received numerous requests for it in an audio format — a decision that proved to be extremely valuable to Carol’s family. It is reassuring to know they can listen to Carol’s voice any time they would like to.
Carol passed away in 2011 from complications of the cancer. She survived 15 years from her original diagnosis and was passionate about helping others through the cancer journey during those last years of her life. Her son, Steve, decided to keep this book and site as a living memorial to Carol’s desire to help others through their own cancer journeys.
Carol also published a children’s book inspired by a conversation with her grandson, Alec, titled Grandma, Guess What? — also available for purchase.
Carol, in pictures
Carol used this mixer for almost 50 years, and used it all the time!Carol loved her backyard — she spent a lot of time gardening.Carol with her eldest child, Kathy. They visited often, living not too far from each other.Carol with her son, Steve. They were very close, even though they lived far apart.Carol after completing the Relay for Life fundraiser walk, an event she took part in every year with friends and church members to raise money for cancer research.Carol’s booth at the Relay for Life event — a friend made a poster-size replica of her book cover.Another moment from that same Relay for Life event.Carol at a book signing. She loved meeting people who had been touched by her book — helping others through their cancer journey mattered deeply to her.Carol spent many years, even before her cancer diagnosis, taking care of herself: eating right, staying active.Carol with her granddaughter, Jessica, who designed the cover of her book.Carol achieved her goal of earning her college degree, after many years as a stay-at-home mother.Carol with her mom and dad, before her father’s passing.Mike, speaking at a fundraiser honoring the late Vince Lombardi, made a point of visiting with the cancer patients at St. Luke’s in Milwaukee. Carol proudly signed copies of both her books for him.To celebrate her first remission, Carol took a trip to Hawaii.Carol’s backyard was heavenly — she really loved spending time there.Carol loved gardening, and her backyard was beautiful.Carol’s backyard, in autumn.Carol’s backyard, after a Wisconsin snowfall.Carol with her children and grandchildren at her granddaughter Jessica’s wedding.Carol receiving communion from Jessica during her wedding ceremony.Carol, on her wedding day.Carol with her youngest grandchildren.
