Susan Petley experienced a mix of emotions as she crossed the stage during the graduation ceremony at St. Michael’s Adult Catholic High School in Windsor, Ontario. This moment had been a long-held dream for her. Holding back tears in the packed gymnasium, Petley received her late daughter Bethany Anne Coupe’s high school diploma. Bethany had tragically passed away from cancer in April, leaving a void in the family’s celebratory moment.
Despite the bittersweet occasion, Petley expressed immense pride but also sorrow that her daughter could not witness this achievement. Accompanied by her daughter Cynthia, Petley held onto the diploma tightly, feeling a surge of emotions that included hurt, anger, and love.
Bethany, aged 35, had faced persistent health challenges that made completing her courses a struggle. Diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and given a grim prognosis, she persevered by studying from her hospital bed with the support of St. Michael’s staff. Initially puzzled by her daughter’s determination, Petley later understood that Bethany’s graduation was a profound gift to her mother and a personal goal she was determined to achieve.
Bethany had aspirations of furthering her education at St. Clair College with a focus on helping children or animals. At the graduation ceremony, Petley and Cynthia were joined by six siblings who were also celebrating their academic accomplishments together. Among them, Rodas Tesfalem Arey, originally from Sudan, expressed immense pride in their collective achievements.
The Arey siblings showcased a diverse range of career goals, including mechanics, personal support worker, pilot, and pharmacist technician. Rodas expressed gratitude to the St. Michael’s staff for their unwavering support and motivation in helping them reach their aspirations.
In a poignant message, Petley emphasized the importance of perseverance and determination, inspired by her daughter’s unwavering resolve. She encouraged others to pursue their dreams relentlessly, drawing strength from Bethany’s legacy of resilience and ambition.