I met Diana Golden Brosnihan only in passing, but it was impossible not to know that she was special. In an era of widespread self-pity, Diana, who waged a Sisyphean battle with cancer, starting with the time when she lost a leg to the disease as a 12-year-old, exhibited uncommon grace and determination.

Running into Diana and her husband, Steve, a contributing illustrator for the Phoenix, in February at the Providence Newspaper Guild's Follies, she flashed a radiant smile that suggested her zest for life. Indeed, this was a woman whose first words after her right leg was amputated were, according to the New York Times, "Will I still be able to ski?" Cited by the Times as a pioneer who brought credibility to disable athletes, she went on to serve as a formidable role model, wining a gold medal in disable skiing during the 1988 Calgary Olympics, and a motivational speaker.

Dealt a fate that would have crushed many of us, Diana continued to wield a spirit that could best be described as robust. The playfulness and humor that distinguish Steve's illustrations are qualities that she steadily brought to her days. And the difficulties faced by Diana - and the challenges she overcame -- offer a potent reality check for many of us.

After an ongoing fight with cancer, Diana died August 25, at the age of 38. Our thoughts and sympathy go out to Steve and Diana's family.

Issue Date: August 31 - September 6, 2001