Tricia Elaine Black
April 24, 1976 — July 11, 2006
Our sweet, brave, strong Tricia Elaine Black passed away last night, July 11, 2006, surrounded by her immediate family. She was so many things to so many people—mother, wife, daughter, friend, confidante, and role model. She was also a source of inspiration to all of us.
Throughout her long and courageous struggle with melanoma, Teb never once lost hope, and the smile on her face never faded. That which she hoped for may have changed, and it may have been harder to find reasons to keep smiling, but she persevered through all of her challenges and was able to continue to see the bright side of life. Even in her darkest times, she continued to find strength and joy from Sam's accomplishments, from Michael's unwavering love and support, and from the moments of happiness and triumph, big and small, that occurred in the lives of her friends and loved ones.
She leaves behind a legacy in all of us—in those who knew her well and in those who came to know her only through her honest and moving descriptions of her journey on her blog. And, of course, through Teb's Troops. Because of Teb and because of your generosity, we have contributed tens of thousands of dollars and will continue to contribute tens of thousands more to melanoma research and education. Because of Teb, we hope that one day soon, a thirty-year-old woman who learns that she has stage IV melanoma will know that there are treatments that will work, and that someday, another person, another parent, another spouse, who hears that same news will know that there is a cure for this beast. We will—no, we must—continue to wage this war on Teb’s behalf. In fighting this fight, in living our lives, in loving our loved ones, and in continuing to HOPE, we will honor and remember this brave and amazing woman.
Sweet and wonderful Teb, we will miss you with every ounce of our beings. But we will keep living, keep laughing, keep fighting, and keep loving as a tribute to you. You will never be forgotten, dear friend.
Please join us in honoring Teb by lighting a candle in her memory at 8pm EDT on Thursday, July 13, 2006. Details regarding Teb’s memorial service to follow.
With hope,
The Officers of Teb's Troops
Thank you to everyone who helped us through this, viewed this site and helped Trish make it as long as she did, you gave her HOPE. Mike and Sam we love you. Rod, Diane and Val, we are her for you and love you all very much.
Jon Black