In memory of Brittany Coppedge
My daughter has always been an inspiration to those around her, but her battle with lung cancer at just 19 years old has been a lesson in toughness, grace, determination and heart to all who knew or met her. Brittany was a 13 year nationally competitive gymnast, a big sister, college sophomore and she was on her way to a bright future and so excited about the plans she had, until she was diagnosed in December, 2006 with stage 4 BAC and admitted to UNC Hospital. We were blessed to have some of the finest nursing staff and medical care available, and knowing you have someone to talk to and cry with as you sit in the chair every night watching your baby girl fight to live is a feeling you can’t put into words.
Though her fight lasted just three weeks after her diagnosis, the battle in her memory has continued. Friends and family came together to honor Brittany and participated in Relay for Life. “Brittany’s Battle” was born out of grief and anger and today exists as a non-profit organization to support local cancer families as they fight their own battles and to raise awareness about lung cancer and the desperate need for more research and funding.
My daughter continues to inspire and encourage others, and we will continue her battle against lung cancer and will honor her legacy by supporting and encouraging those around us the way she lived her life for those around her everyday.
Brittany Elizabeth Coppedge…you will always live in my heart and in all I do.