1993 – 2009
Geraldine Lauren Collins departed peacefully on December 22, 2009 in the loving arms of her “Uncle Man.” Gerri spent the last few difficult years at the home of her uncle Raymond Collins and his wife Yvette. They, along with Gerri’s mother Audrey Collins, provided the special care for Gerri until her little body surrendered to cancer.
Born on September 8, 1993, Gerri’s future was cut short when she was diagnosed at the age of 10 with osteosarcoma. The rare form of cancer starts in the bones of youth as they are about to experience that adolescent growth spurt. She accepted the diagnosis with strength and quiet defiance.
Over the years and with other organs being affected, Gerri faced cycles of surgeries, chemotherapy and radiation treatments with calm resignation. She was a model patient at Cardinal Glennon Hospital where she won the hearts of the medical staff. In spite of her circumstances, Gerri was always involved in the decisions about her quality of life
Gerri’s brother, Raymond, was by her side throughout her grueling struggle and made sure she engaged in as many teenage activities as possible, like texting on her cell phone and listening to her favorite music through her headphones. She often had to do this from her bed or wheelchair.
A special 16th birthday surprise trip to Chicago had been planned by friends, but Gerri was too weak to make the journey. Instead, a laptop was purchased that allowed her to communicate with the outside world. Her Facebook page tells visitors: “I have cancer and heart disease … this is real! Prayers go a long way!”
Gerri was a devoted member of St. Nicholas Catholic Church, where hundreds of friends, family and extended family members gathered for her final celebration. She was a true source of inspiration to all who had watched her meet each new challenge with determination and courage.
Gerri is survived by mother, Audrey Collins; two brothers, Raymond J. Collins and Cortlaan D. Collins; grandfather, Julius Collins; two uncles, Raymond Collins (Yvette), and Wilbert Williams-Bey; her cousins, Alexa, Brianna, Deja and Niesah; and a loving village especially Tonya Hutchinson, Anita Scott, Janey Archey and Terri Coates.