Susan Petley felt a rush of emotions as she made her way across the stage during the graduation ceremony at St. Michael’s Adult Catholic High School in Windsor, Ontario. This was a moment she had longed for, but it was bittersweet. Petley expressed a mix of hurt, anger, and love that brought tears to her eyes and sparked a heartfelt ovation in the packed gymnasium.
Standing in for her late daughter, Bethany Anne Coupe, who had passed away from cancer in April, Petley received Bethany’s high school diploma with her other daughter, Cynthia, by her side. Despite being a proud mother, Petley couldn’t help but feel sorrow that Bethany was not there to witness the momentous occasion.
Bethany, aged 35, had been battling health issues for years, struggling to complete her studies due to her diagnosis of pancreatic cancer and limited time left. However, determined to graduate, she diligently kept up with her coursework even from her hospital bed with the support of the St. Michael’s staff.
Initially, Petley found it hard to comprehend Bethany’s unwavering dedication. However, she later realized that Bethany’s desire to graduate was not just a gift for her mother but a personal achievement that she truly desired. Bethany had aspirations of attending St. Clair College to pursue a career in assisting children or animals.
On the same evening, Petley and Cynthia were among the first of over 200 individuals who crossed the stage at St. Michael’s Adult Catholic High School. Watching proudly from the front row were six siblings, including Rodas Tesfalem Arey, who had immigrated with their family from Sudan to Windsor. The siblings celebrated their joint accomplishment, with plans ranging from becoming mechanics, a personal support worker, a pilot, to a pharmacist technician.
Reflecting on the evening filled with mixed emotions, Petley encouraged others to persevere in pursuing their goals, drawing inspiration from her daughter’s unwavering determination. She emphasized that no matter the obstacles faced, true aspirations can be achieved with dedication, a lesson she learned from her daughter’s journey.
