Our host Linda drove up moments after I had arrived at their beautiful home. We got out of our cars to greet one another. She was coming from the doctor’s office where she’d just been given a diagnosis of stage 4 pancreatic cancer.
She warmly welcomed numerous nourishing hugs over the days of our two separate stays over six weeks (Aug & Sep this year). We bonded with Linda & Peter, enjoying rich transparent conversations.
The morning of our second departure Linda wasn’t feeling well so we slipped away quietly. An hour later we got a text saying how sad she was that she’d missed the opportunity to share a parting hug.
The next text from her a couple weeks later said they were taking down their Home Exchange listing because their space would be used for family visiting—but that we could message her if we wanted to stay again and she’d accommodate us if possible.
We felt honored to be an exceptional case, but even more so when this final message came on Nov 5: “Tomorrow is my exit day under California’s right-to-die law.”
We were deeply touched that a mere Home Exchange interaction could lead to her ensuring that among the people in her life that she wanted to bid farewell, we were on the list.
Rest in peace, dear Linda. And Peter, we’ll keep reaching out to offer our love—hoping to see you soon and share in your grief.
