Chris Zielinski by Cyndi Morgan

Cyndi models Zel’s jewelry in honor of her sister Chris Zielinski.

My Sister, Chris

My sister, Chris Zielinski, was diagnosed with frontal lobe dementia about eight years ago – it seems like a lifetime ago.

My sister was a teacher, a social worker, an advocate for those who needed a strong voice, a quilter, a crafter, a seamstress, an outstanding gardener, a painter, a good cook, and she learned how to play the cello as an adult. She was one with nature.

She raised two daughters and took care of our mother when mom was dying from cancer. She helped all of us at one time or another. My sister loved her family, old movies, reading, music and her cocker spaniel, Sage. She was someone to be admired.

For a long time after the diagnosis, I felt like she wasn’t my sister anymore. But the past couple of years seem to be different. Maybe with the help of prayer, I see my sister with different eyes. Now I admire her for being able to smile, to laugh, to put one foot in front of the other everyday. I love the way she lights up when she sees her grandchildren and my grandchildren.

My sister isn’t gone, she’s just different. Frontal lobe dementia is a terrible disease and I hope and pray that one day research will lead to a cure. But until then, I will hold my sister up in prayer and ask God to give her peace and strength.

My sister was a trustworthy, intelligent, loving person, and a person of faith – dementia really can’t take that away.

I am thankful to have this opportunity to share my sister, Chris, with everyone. She touched and improved so many lives – I believe that is still happening today.

Cyndi Morgan

Set #48 as worn by Nicky

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Cyndi’s daughter Nicky models some black and white jewelry in honor of her aunt.

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