R.I.P. Gertrude

It is with much sorrow that I share the news of the loss of a dear friend.  Gertrude, my beloved yellow toe nail finally detached 12 weeks post crush fracture of my big toe. Sadly, she was the victim of a tragic accident when a heavy umbrella base fell on her at the end of July.  Near the end, she was having a tough time hanging on, and she left us on Monday, October 24, 2016, at 11:17am in Laguna Beach, CA.  She is survived by 9 bereaved, loving siblings:  2nd toenail on my right foot, 3rd toenail on my right foot, 4th toenail on my right foot, pinky toenail on my right foot, big toenail on my left foot, 2nd toenail on my left foot, 3rd toenail on my left foot, 4th toenail on my left foot, pinky toenail on my left foot.  She is also survived by several phalanx distal bones, several phalanx proximal bones and many metatarsal bones.  All mourn her loss and will miss her greatly. She was a real leader, always setting a colorful example for the other nails to follow. Gertrude worked many years as the anchor of my right foot, helping to keep me balanced.  She enjoyed yoga, mountain climbing, swimming, biking and long walks on the beach.  God rest her sole.  RIP Gertrude.  In lieu of flowers, please have a colorful pedicure in Gertrude’s honor.

The nail in the coffin:

gertrude

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I am a survivor of two extremely rare diseases, thanks to over 100 blood transfusions and ultimately, a bone marrow transplant. My blog, joselynsbrawl.com, chronicles my adventures through medical offices, operating rooms, clinics, transfusion centers, hospital transplant floors, victory celebrations, and finally my bucket list items – all with a humorous and sometimes profane twist. My goal is to inspire others not to give up on life or anything else, and to understand that it’s actually possible to enjoy any experience, even battling a life-threatening illness (or two).

24 thoughts on “R.I.P. Gertrude

  1. You know what is so funny about this? While I send my condolences for the loss of your beloved Gertrude… I am sitting here reading this post while I am in fact enjoying a most relaxing pedicure! RIP Gertrude

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  2. Sorry to hear about Gertrude Jos, but I can’t quite get into the pedicure thing – just a bit too macho to have my toenails painted. Maybe I’ll paint my room in her honor.

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  3. Omg, I’m so sorry to hear 👂about Gertrude or Gertie! She was such a colorful loving soul. She must have been a Pittsburgh Steeler fan 🏈💛🏈💛 as she was black and gold!!! Always bright 💡and full of sunshine. 🌞 May she Rest In Peace. Our thoughts and prayers are with the other nine 🐷 👣. ❌⭕️

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  4. Dear Jos, I am so sorry for your loss. May Gertrude’s memory be for a blessing and an inspiration. I remember her fondly during better times.
    Being nailed by an umbrella stand is sad indeed.
    Whatever you need during this wrenching time for you and Todd, as always, the answer is yes.
    Love and good thoughts coming your way.
    I was particularly impressed by Gettrude’s demeanor, as through it all not a single complaint. She was, indeed a trooper. Although she didn’t look like much, she had a great personality.
    My biggest regret was to not have been her friend on Facebook.
    RIP #Gertrude.
    Love,
    Bart

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  5. What a gift with words you have not to mention a fabulous sense of humor. Loved it…I will pray for Gertrude..xxoo Hope her sister grows back very soon… >

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  6. I can identify with you. My mother’s name was Gertie short for Gertrude. She passed away in 2000 and it was a very sad day. Time does heal….You will have an easier time as time goes by. I will go out and have a pedicure in her honor. Will there be a memorial service in her honor? Bob Barnes

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  7. i’m sure many at zinc cdm thought i’d lost it as i howled in laughter while reading your text waiting for some badly needed coffee. i said a prayer for your loss and a prayer of being thankful that you are able to share your amazing gift of gab with all of us!
    you are a rocket child miss jos!

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  8. I will greatly miss Gertrude. She was such a blast to hang out with in Hawaii. She was quite the fashionista showstopper👍🏻

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  9. Jos:

    You would think Gertrude would have never happened after all you have suffered… This is just one more

    “Monkey Bite” of life …. and you survive.

    I love you very much, Sweetheart.

    Auntie Char

    Sent from Outlook

    ________________________________

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