Peg Myrick, a dear friend of so many in our community, died August 23 from colorectal cancer. Peg was a member of our Never Too Young Advisory Board and a friend and ally to many people. With her radiant smile and upbeat personality, she touched the hearts and lives of all who came to know her.
Peg worked tirelessly to educate as many as she could that you are never too young for colorectal cancer. Every person lost to this disease is a tragedy, yet some we come to know more than others. Peg's zest for life will continue to live on in those she knew and loved, and we will continue to work every day to end this disease in our lifetime.
Learn more about Peg from local television station WTVR, which shared news of her passing and, back in February, labeled Peg a “hero among us.” The Colorectal Cancer Alliance also established a Blue Star Tribute in her honor, in alignment with her wishes.
In the wake of Peg’s death, some fellow members of the Never Too Young Advisory Board provided written tributes. They appear below.
Tributes to Peg:
“Peg was such a force of love and beauty and laughter! “Live like Peg” will forever be my way to live the most in each day I am gifted in this life. She sure did LIVE in the time she had and I won’t ever forget her voice, her cute accent, her belly laugh and her brilliant way of speaking for our community!” - Kendra Mitchell
“Peg had the ability to make a profound impact in even the briefest encounters. She taught me, and many others, winning is living life on your own terms! I admire Peg's courage and aspire to be like her. She is a role model for MANY! In addition to her board work and advocacy, she taught us you are never too young to make the best of life.” - Kevin Hays
“Rest in beautiful peace Peg. No one can ever take your place or fill your shoes. You were a silly, funny, courageous, fearless, humble and peaceful warrior that gave nothing but love, but also took no crap!! Thank you for reminding me what's important in life and thank you for you!! Goodbye my friend.” - Vanessa Ghigliotty
“Peg was so much more than a friend. We roomed together, laughed together and cried together. Peg was afraid of elevators so I would always text her and ride with her to any function at conferences. My heart has a hole in it. She is one of those people who is just eternal. I still can't believe she is gone. How can you put the love, admiration, closeness, honesty, strength, integrity, positivity and everything else she embodied in one sentence? I can't. I loved her and everything about her. I miss her so much. I will always try to honor her and #livelikepeg, now more than ever.” - Joy Freedman
“Peg Myrick - You were a burst of light in a dark world. You made everyone feel so special, yet you were the one we all strived to be like. The positive impact you made in the colorectal cancer community will be remembered for years to come. You were so strong, and lived life to the fullest. I am so happy you were a part of my life, but it wasn’t for long enough - 39 is too young. I will never forget you and your beautiful smile!” - Anna Dahlgren
“Peg belonged to so many people, but in the colorectal cancer world she was like the sun. Peg shined so brightly, and we were all honored to stand in her light.” - Diana Sloan
“When I first heard of Peg’s death, my immediate thought was, wow, Peg was a woman who truly lived. I am saddened by her death, and feel particularly sad for her dear family and close friends, but I also feel grateful that such an incredible, incandescent person brightened all our lives. We are all the better for having known her.” - Angelina McIntire
“I struggle to find the words for this amazing woman. Peg was always the one to bring joy to a room and have the best hugs. She’s truly one of the most amazing individuals I have ever met.” - Riley Castro
“Peg was a high-spirited woman who was never afraid to have a good time.” - Jacen Roberts
“Peg was my roommate in Houston at the conference. Peg left a legacy of positivity and activism that will be difficult to match.” - Andrea Bauer
“Peg was so special because no matter what she was going through she still wanted to help others. Her determination inspired others to be strong and advocate and we will continue to do so in her honor!” - Alison Rosen
"Peg will continue to shine bright. Like the Blue Hope diamond around her neck and the ones that sparkle in her eyes" - Valarie Schlosser
“I am so overwhelmed with mixed emotions today. Today is a day that I should be celebrating as it has been 1 year since my surgery and 1 year of being cancer-free. But I just found out that one of my amazing friends Peg that was also fighting this disease passed peacefully in her sleep today at the age of 39 years old. I am just beyond words sad. This disease must be stopped... I think she would want me to celebrate even harder and keep on doing what I am doing to advocate. Pina Coladas tonight for Peg.” - Wes Hensel
“Peg lived out loud. Her light and love knew no bounds. She was a force of nature that stood out. Whether advocating for others, offering advice, or simply being a friend. Peg fought endlessly to educate others about colorectal cancer by shining the spotlight on her own story.” - Kim Newcomer