Caracas, 12/06/1953 — Limoges, 11/14/2023

One year after her passing, her family published this memorial to honor her memory and raise awareness for the prevention of brain aneurysm ruptures. Recognizing the symptoms and reacting in time can save lives.

Her spouse and daughters remember Lourdes as a remarkable woman—cheerful, charismatic, loving, and full of life. One year ago, while on vacation with her spouse, sister, and brother-in-law, she suddenly experienced an intense headache one evening. Within minutes, she was in a state of minimal consciousness with irreversible damage to the left side of her brain.

After several hours in the hospital and two specialized surgeries, the medical team, who responded quickly and meticulously, had answers. An aneurysm located in Lourdes’s left carotid artery had unexpectedly ruptured. Although they managed to contain a progressing brain death, the chances of her regaining consciousness were uncertain.

Ten days later, after surgeries, specialized tests, and first-rate intensive care, the medical team, considering the wishes Lourdes had expressed in life, decided to remove her life support. In this transition, her spouse, daughters, sisters, nieces, and entire family and friends, united with one heart, surrounded her.

Andrés (spouse): “I KNOW you are in Heaven. Beloved wife and faithful friend. Bringer of happiness and support in adversity. Above all, a devoted Mother and Grandmother. I KNOW you are in Heaven.”

Fedora (daughter): “Sudden farewells // Leave us with the taste of absence // But in the solace of memories // Live the experiences we shared // The gentle touch and accurate word // Of your motherly breath // Of your radiant, eternal soul // I find // The sparkle of your presence // Thank you, Mother.” (Poem).

Mónica (daughter): Facing the sudden death of my mother has been the most painful experience of my life. This year has been one of great learning and acceptance. It still feels unreal that someone so full of life has left so soon. I will always miss her presence. On this anniversary, the most important thing is to understand that her passing can help others become more aware of the warning signs our bodies give us. After a year of reading and learning about aneurysms, I realized that my mother had warning signs, and if we had the education we have today, maybe we could have prevented her rupture and had a few more years with her.

I am grateful for the Brain Aneurysm Foundation’s work and for sending light to survivors dealing with the aftermath. I know it’s a constant struggle, and I sincerely wish they could find happiness in their second chance. I would give anything for my mother to have had one. I wish you strength, peace, and profound health.

Death is a fact, and I hope it is a peaceful moment for all and that you may transcend surrounded by loved ones, as my mother did.

Andrea (daughter): “This has been a difficult year; living without her physical presence is a harrowing experience. However, I take solace in her teachings, the cherished memories, and the hugs I will treasure until my last breath.”

Malú (daughter): My mom’s sudden passing came when I was seven months pregnant. The joy of becoming a mother collided with the pain of losing her, leaving me in a complex emotional space. I wish we’d known to look for the early signs of an aneurysm enough to change the outcome. I feel her presence in every choice I make for my child; she taught me well. I hope this memorial brings awareness to aneurysms, honoring her legacy through love and understanding.

As a family, we want to thank all of our relatives and friends for supporting us during this challenging time, the medical team of the polyvalent resuscitation unit at CHU Dupuytren 1 Hospital in Limoges, France, and those who have guided us with reliable information, knowledge, and support through the BAF Foundation.

We will never forget Lourdes, who had great joy, vitality, energy, enthusiasm, and deep love, just as she lived by our side.