A Tribute to Cassie Skinner from a friend and fellow adult with HH, Carrie Fulcher
I always felt so privileged that she would share her story with such a positive inspiring attitude. Unfortunately, Cassie suffered several complications from the surgery, some she managed to recover from over time, but some were permanent. I remember admiring her for getting through that. I knew it would take a lot of strength to do so. She certainly did it with dignity and a lot of determination. After many conversations, I soon learned that what got her through these challenging times was the love of her family members. She would often express to me how they were her rock and having them there through good and bad times was enough for her to keep fighting hard.
Over the years, although Cassie finally got rid of the seizures, the complications of the surgery meant that she experienced cognitive comorbidities. She believed they were a small price to pay for a life of no more seizures. I remember thinking this girl was like no other. She’s so brave. She was someone I definitely looked up to and admired.
Last year Cassie contacted me to share the sad news that she had been diagnosed with stage four lung cancer. She was obviously very scared about what was ahead of her with more procedures and medications, but again – not once did I hear her complain. In fact, the clear picture I have of Cassie is her messaging me to ask how I was! So many times, I would say to her; never mind how I am, how are you? The answer was always a positive one despite deep down feeling scared.
My lasting memory of Cassie will be a beautiful selfless soul who always put others before herself. As she is laid to rest, I would like to show my appreciation for the friendship she gave. My deepest sympathy goes to Cassie’s husband Tom and her family and friends she loved dearly with her whole heart. I know there will be a huge gap that can never be filled. I do hope it gives her family some comfort knowing how fondly the HH community will be thinking of Cassie.
Cassie’s Obituary
Cassie Leigh (Simonson) Skinner, age 50, of Eau Claire, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Wednesday, January 18, 2023 after a courageous battle with cancer. Cassie was born on May 8, 1972 to Richard and Carol Simonson.
She graduated from Bloomer High School and went on to CVTC where she earned her CNA Certification. Cassie was overflowing with empathy. She always saw the good in others and wanted to be a friend to everyone. She always wanted to help others anyway she could. She had a fondness for people with disabilities. As such, she spent her adult life caring for handicapped and elderly people. She truly enjoyed helping people and making their lives better. Cassie worked for Aurora and Safe @ Home, among other home care facilities.
On September 14, 2002, Cassie was united in marriage to Tom Skinner. They met while she was a passenger in a taxi cab. She rode with him for about a year before he got the courage to ask her on a date. They were engaged a short time later, but due to circumstances they did not get married for 10 years.
She enjoyed counted cross stitch, oil painting and most recently diamond painting. Cassie loved taking Rico, (their dog) for long walks. In the fall of 2022, she pursued a lifelong desire and went skydiving, a great thrill for her. Cassie was a member of the Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd and eagerly waited for the Monday nights bible study with a group of friends. Wanting to continue helping others, Cassie requested that her body be donated to medical science. Mayo Clinic was honored to receive her donation to help advance medical care.She is survived by her husband Tom; father Richard (Tammy) Simonson; mother Carol (Dale) Bilderback; sister Michelle Martin; niece Kayla Martin (Jett); aunt Sheryl Helland; aunt Loella (Joe) Moll; uncle Richard (LeAnne) Reetz; aunt Colleen Casey; mother-in-law Carol Taylor; brothers-in-law: Chad (Tari) Skinner and Douglas (Jessie) Taylor; sister-in-law Hilma (Willie) Hanson; many nieces, nephews and cousins; and best friends: Tina (Travis) Myers and Keri Espinal.
Preceding her in death are her grandparents: Betty and Richard Schneider; grandmother Gladys Reetz; uncle Donald Simonson; cousin Steven Simonson; and special friend Gary Porter.
