Linda aunty, or as my daughter used to call her, 'Apple Nana', was the only aunt I had from my maternal side. She was more than a aunt to me and my siblings. When she was around, it was always very lively and sorrow was not an option.
When Travis joined our family as my husband, aunty always treated him as if he was her very own son. She even supported him financially to complete his hotel school degree which was the stepping stone of his present success in his career.
Aunty was a true pillar of strength in dark times. She was one of the very first to come forward when I was told to do a Kidney transplant in 1999. It was a big blow to my family, as Farah, my daughter was only 4 years old. Linda Aunty gave courage to both me and Travis to pull through. She supported us to the end, financially as well. She is one of the main reasons why I'm able to stand on my own two feet and watch my daughter grow.
Aunty was always concerned about my health. She hated when people made comments about my recovery after the transplant. She said it was evil eye, and that I shouldn't say I'm doing well.
The most memorable day for me of aunty was the 24th of January, 2012, the day that she arrived at my place. She started the stay by complaining about immigration officers but soon was enjoying a lovely lunch prepared by her sister specially for her, including most of her local favorites. I was fortunate to have her with our family off day, and she enjoyed the sing along and the lovely cup of tea Travis prepared for her, that evening.
Aunty was very proud to hear about Travis being nominated as "The Stand-out individual for the John Keells leisure group" and took charge to edit his profile for the award while having some sparkling wine along with cheesy omelet, which was also prepared by Travis. She enjoyed going through my daughter's wardrobe and accessories. Farah is 17 now, and this showed that aunty was still young at heart.
On the 26th of January, just after her lunch at Cinnamon Grand Hotel, she bid farewell and gave a hug and a kiss to Travis, in hopes of seeing us pretty soon. Seldom did we realize that it would be the last farewell kiss a member of our family received.
I will always thank Allah for giving me such a wonderful person for an aunt. May she rest in peace for eternity.
Loving niece, Deeka (Dilshad Mahamoor Casather)
