Andrea Collins Smith, 38, punk rock mommy, dies July 9, 2008

I’m amazed and ashamed I’ve only first read about this family today.

Andrea Collins Smith began a Web site, www.punkrockmommy.org, to chronicle her battle with incurable breast cancer.

She’s a mother of six, ranging from 18 to 20 months. Graduated form Temple University in 2007 with a psychology degree. Enjoyed the punk rock scene on South Street. And has fans worldwide because of her Web site.

I’ve been spending some time — hours — recapping old blog posts, which also come from friends and her husband, Kelly.  Reading about her journey and expressing her true feelings, no BS.  Some of the things I wanted to express when I went through my treatment, but I never did because I still felt (and feel, and am) like one of the lucky ones.

By reading the posts, you can sense the genuine person she is.  The Inquirer quotes her on one of her conversations she said she had with God about the series of events in her life.

 ”I’m a mother. I just graduated from college. Now I have terminal cancer. I thought you wanted more from me. Besides, it’s very cliched. Very Lifetime television,” she said she told God.

The Web site’s still up and running, and Kelly and the kids will continue to update and talk about the progression of their family. I encourage you to read it and help however you can.