Betty Jo Dagley

By definition, a hero is a person who, in the opinion of others, has heroic qualities, or has performed a heroic act, and is regarded as a model or idealistic person. In my opinion, I think that a hero is someone who cares for other people more than themselves, and is always willing to help others.

My personal hero would most definately be my mom! She has always lived her life to the fullest everyday, and cared so much for others! Betty Jo was one of those people who would always go out of her way for others. She gave everyone the benefit of the doubt in most cases, and in my opinion changed many people's lives.

Unfortunately, she is not with us anymore. In October, 2003, she was diagnosed with leukemia. She had an ongoing battle with this cancer for the next 11 months. After treatment, many doses of chemotherapy, and a bone marrow transplant, she passed away on September 3, 2004.

During this time period, she always managed to turn things into the positive. She would joke about how great the chemotherapy was because it allowed her the chance to try out new hairstyles, and experiment with different colors because she had lost her hair. She always went to work, despite feeling ill, and brought cheer and happiness in spite of her situation.

She helped me, and others, through many trials and tribulations. I always refer back to how she dealt with things to help me with my problems. She is continuously there for me, just through the reminders and memories that I have of her. In loving memory, thanks mom!