My sister Karla Herring is the most amazing woman I know. She is a devoted wife, beloved mother, wonderful daughter and sister and also an employee of Vance Air Force Base of over 10 years. To me her life was perfect until a few years ago.
It all began in 2004; Karla’s father, Carl Smart Sr., was diagnosed with cancer. Karla loved her father and spent many long evenings after work sitting by his side. How hard it must have been for her to watch her father in so much pain. But this was only the beginning for what she would go through. Shortly after the news of her father, she learned her brother, Carl Smart Jr., also had been diagnosed with this disease. Then even more tragic she was diagnosed with breast cancer. How could it be father, son and daughter all have the disease at the same time; this was a question no one could answer. Karla spent as much time as she could with her father and brother. Karla and little Carl even went to some appointments together.
Unfortunately, Karla lost her father and brother, for the treatments failed them short of life. This didn’t stop her hope, Karla fought and fought and she conquered. Karla is now free of this deadly disease, her courage and ambition to win this war proved most no matter how life comes at you, a person can overcome the battle with cancer. Today I look at my sister and every time I see her shining face, I see Carl Sr. and Carl Jr., and through our Golden Angel they will live forever. We love you Sis!!!
Tina Roton, Enid
