Denise

As many of you know, a major factor in my decision to pedal across the country is to honor my aunts, "The Farrell Sisters." To date, I have only written in depth about Maude, but I pledge to write about the others --Katie, Eileen, and Betty Ann -- soon. Given the past 72 hours, however, I feel the need to write about Denise.

My uncle, Bobby (my mom's brother), was married to Betty Ann for over thirty years until she lost a courageous battle with ovarian cancer. Upon her death, Uncle Bobby, my family, and I were crushed. We wondered why God would take Bobby's bride -- someone so incredibly special -- at such a young age?

Bobby, the charismatic, singer extraordinaire, was in store for some trying times. Having already buried his younger sister, Katie, in July '04, he then buried Betty Ann in August '05, and two of his three remaining younger sisters, Eileen and Maude, in November '05 and February '09 respectively.

After Betty Ann's passing, Bobby was blessed with love once again. Denise Cogliano came into Bobby's life and taught him that it was okay to live life to the fullest and to love again. She possessed such a caring personality and a positive outlook on life. Her light shined brightly on us Farrells and Hurleys, and the fact that she and Bobby found each other was such a special blessing.

Yesterday, Denise died unexpectedly. Once again, Uncle Bobby, my family, and I are crushed. Once again, we are wondering why God would take someone so incredibly special away at such a young age. We are devastated.

Denise, my entire family is eternally thankful that you became such a special part of our lives, and, most importantly, in Uncle Bobby's life. We miss you already, and we love you dearly.