Tish Benton passed away July 17, 2011. When Karen (www.KarensDay.com) first arrived at Shands in October, 2009 Tish was one of the first people she met. Given both Tish and Karen’s personalities it is not surprising that they met and became friends. I have many fond memories of visits Tish made to Karen when she was “in” and Tish came to Shands for outpatient appointments. We met her daughter Donna once when she accompanied Tish to Shands. Donna and I stood out in the hall and had our own visit as well. We also saw Tish many times down the hall in the outpatient clinic. It was always amazing to me how all the patients lifted each other’s spirits as they chatted while often sitting for hours to get their needed goodies. Tish had printed up some business cards with her contact information to give to people she met. Her full name was Roberta Leticia “Tish” Elmore Benton. On the card she had her name down as Tish “Sunshine” Benton. I am not sure if there were people in her life that called her Sunshine, but I do know the name fit her very well.

I am sorry for her family’s loss. Please know that I am a first hand witness to the warmth and love that Tish extended to those she met as their hard path crossed her own. She had invited us to her church and when Karen and I finally did get the chance we did attend (www.gatorchurch.com) we were immediately welcome by many of the people. Karen had to wear a mask at the time and people seemed to know what that meant and were quick to offer comments of support. After Karen’s passing on Jan 1, 2011, I went to Gainesville three months later and was baptized at that church. Tish invited me to stay with her when I came down for the event. She had company that weekend though so I missed seeing her that trip, though I talked with her on the phone. The pain I feel daily as I continue to miss Karen is slowly easing as the memories of our life together and the people we met fill my mind. Thank you Tish for your positive part in Karen’s hard journey.