Helen Harris

Doris: a Tale of Two Sisters Helen Harris

A happy O'Malley family of four sisters, one brother, father and mother, lived in a row house in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The smallest, youngest, and favorite of all was Doris. However, her life changed dramatically at age eleven, and her family and others were devastated. We were heading to the mall when I realized she was not moving. The ambulance was called and in those days there were no MRI, and little other than x-ray, so at first we didn't know what happened to my little sister. Finally the diagnosis of nephritis was made, and Doris was put on penicillin for one year, but this horrible disease struck again. Soon it was evident that we were in for the long battle; and Doris' lonely, challenging journey began. Prayer, confidence, and an unyielding mother's love brought Doris to a healing. The determined girl then took matters into her own hands. First, off to school for her elementary certificate, followed by a high school diploma. Then, some financial support, she graduated as a licensed vocational nurse. At age of 42, Doris proudly walked across the stage and received her diploma, with perfect attendance. She was now able to go out into the world beaming and independent. Tragically, endometrial cancer crept unrecognized into the single girl's life. It spread to a full blown cancer death, but to the very end, Doris still flashed the V for victory sign . . . even on her death bed. Together, my little sister and I walked through the dark passages and right into the light as the angels swept her away on November 20, 1992. Read this remarkable, inspiring story of loss, faith, and the fighting spirit of Doris O'Malley.