One would think at the age of 75 I'd be pretty much immune to suffering and death especially when it comes to family members, dear friends and acquaintances. It isn't so.
Last Friday evening I received the phone call that I dreaded but knew was coming. My lovely Susie Doyens had gone home to Jesus.
Fourteen years ago, and this is the third time I've written about this darling angel, I met a lady with Down Syndrome who lived in Rotunda West, Florida. She was age 33 at the time but could pass for 12. Susie was in a Publix grocery store with her mother and stood in front of photos with the likes of Arnold Palmer, Greg Norman, Mark O'Meara and many other stars of the golfing world. Of course, I was keenly interested. When I arrived back in Ohio I sent a check to her Special Olympics organization in her name. It was at this time I found out the Doyens family in 2004 was named Special Olympics Family of the Year. And they truly are a remarkable family.
Susie could read and write by age 8 but she didn't speak, primarily because she was embarrassed thinking people would laugh at her. At 13 thinking Susie needed an outlet they took her to a golf course. The pro there rolled a golf ball in the palm of his hand then rolled it on the putting green toward the cup. A spark went off in Susie's head and she became immediately addicted with the game and that day was the beginning of her life's journey.
By fifteen she was forced to give a speech(she was so scared) to a group of students but got through it flawlessly. Victory was hers.
Susie was an avid, passionate golfer. She was my pal. She was adorable. I'll miss her so,
If you'd like to read more on Susie's life read an article from Golf Digest then follow it up with a one minute of her giving a talk called 'Speechless'.
https://www.golfdigest.com/story/golf-saved-my-life-susie-doyens
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bU3RrrpzVec
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