The Weger Family

On September 9, 2012, Darren Weger passed away at the age of 39 at VON Sakura House. His wife, Elaine, shares her family’s story.

My husband, Darren, was only 39 years old when he died of cancer. Our boys, Owen and Oliver were only 3 years old and 18 months old. At first, Darren didn’t want to go but he moved to Sakura House for me, for our boys, and he was thankful he did.

We arrived at Sakura House and were surprised by the quiet, respectful atmosphere and beautiful surroundings. All the volunteers and staff were so friendly and helpful. Darren sat in the comfy arm chair while I sat beside him, holding hands.

Our boys visited Darren only once at Sakura House but the experience was amazing. I wrote about the boys’ last visit with their daddy in a letter to them and we read it together now and then. “…after lunch (you) came to the ‘party’ at Sakura House. There were lots of family and friends there already to visit with Daddy… Momma decided to bring you, one at a time, into Daddy’s room to visit.” Next, I explained what each of them did with their daddy the last time they saw him. They were wonderful visits and goodbyes. I was so proud of them both. After some quiet time and a nap, both boys went outside to walk and play in the sunshine…”

On the day he passed away, the family decided to “clear the tree” and purchase all the items on the donation tree located near the patient wing. “We have continued with that family donation every year,” says Darren’s sister, Stephanie.

The past four years has also seen the Weger family actively involved with VON Oxford’s Hike for Hospice, an annual fundraising event. The Weger Walkers always look forward to it. They’ve even printed their own t-shirts. “We feel this is a great way for Owen and Oliver to keep their dad’s memory alive,” says Elaine.