Linda's Hope

Linda Hynes

Linda Hynes was known by many as the life of the party, whether it was a party of 2 or 200. She was full of life and as energetic as they come. A total ‘Jersey Girl’ and loved by all, she lit up the room the second she walked in. On New Year’s Day of 2004, my beautiful Aunt Linda was diagnosed with lung cancer and a short eight months later she lost her battle with this terrible disease.

Linda was someone who truly enjoyed life. She liked country music and going out dancing with her sister Sharon. She worked hard, but always found a way to enjoy herself with her husband, Ray and her two sons, Vincent and Mike. They traveled together and just enjoyed each other’s company.

In the words of her eldest son…

“She held many roles—wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She was someone with a strong faith and that faith shaped her life… [A life she lived] to the best of her ability. She [is] truly missed, but she will live forever in those she has touched.”

Her favorite place was relaxing in a raft in her pool with a cocktail celebrating the day. The most memorable moments were those when the family hung out on the patio singing and dancing. I loved watching my aunt and my mom put on “shows” for the rest of the family.

A desire to prevent more people from losing the ones they love--the way we loved my aunt--made me want to make a difference in lung cancer. I created Linda’s Hope to raise awareness and funds for lung cancer research. What better way to do that, while truly honoring Linda and the way she lived and loved life, than to throw a party? “Cocktails for a Cure” will benefit Linda’s Hope.

My aunt’s favorite song was called ‘I Hope You Dance.’ She always hoped for everyone to dance through life. Through Linda’s Hope we will celebrate her life and help make a difference in lung cancer, giving more people the chance to dance through life. I HOPE YOU DANCE!

--Shannon Saumell