A thank you to the BOOGA's of the world

Vicki and I had been the only grandchildren, on my father's side, until 1990. Rocco and Maria were born. Elisa to follow in 1991, and Amanda in 1992. I felt complete and I promised myself that I would be there for them in every step of their life. They mean everything to me. I have seen them grow into the intelligent and fashionable adolescents that they are and I get emotional thinking of them. When they were younger my nickname became LISA BOOGA BOOGA, and I am still referred to as such. I have no idea where this name came from but it stuck. We became the BOOGA clan. The 6 of us would go take pictures with Santa Claus, go shopping, watch movies. I remember taking them to Mickie D's and we played in the little playground. I had to ask permission because I was over 4ft tall. I got stuck in the slide and Rocco stuck his foot in my arse to push me out. It's funny now, but jeeze louise did that hurt!

When I got sick I was worried about how they were going to take it. They never asked questions. They took the news like adults. They never showed me that my being ill affected them. I think they were in denial but they always supported my decisions and me throughout my process. They are great kids. They have inspired me and given me strength. You have to understand...my family and I are very, very close. We literally live in walking distance of one another. We are in eachothers lives constantly. I know who it is at the door by how many times they press the doorbell. lol...Maria!!!

My biggest fear was that I was never going to see them again. It sounds stupid to think that I guess, but these 4 were my life. We were the BOOGA's of the world. I did not want them to see me ill but at the same time I wanted them to understand what was happening. I would stop to ask them if they understood and they would only answer by giving me a heartfelt hug. They never cried in front of me and they never showed me how they felt. They literally pulled a Lisa.

We have become stronger, as 6, in the past year. My BOOGA's have grown. I know they worry about me. I know that they are scared. I know they love me. They have accepted me. They have allowed me to continue moving. I could not have crumbled and show them that giving in was an option. I will still be around to see them break hearts, fall in love, have families of their own and become even more fantastical as individuals.

Amanda just turned 16, Elisa 17, Rocco & Maria 18. I observe them closely. I see how they interact. I see how they treat me. BOOGA's I love you all. My life is richer because of you. I will be here for you as you have been there for me. I think we should hit that slide again, this time no ass pushing!