We talked often but hadn't seen each other for over a year. "During my last visit to the lower forty eight I left my car in Everett. "If you'll drive it to Prince Rupert, and catch the ferry, the trip is on me."
Prince Rupert had more character than cities back home, though the fast food and restaurants were the same you knew you were somewhere else. I had heard about huge ferries that plodded up and down the coast. They boarded fifty cars, maybe more, and you spent your time savoring the beauty of the inland passage always hoping to see some whales.
It was fall and I love fresh air so I opted for a cot outside rather than the small stuffy stateroom. I chose a spot on the top deck over the bridge behind a wind guard I reasoned would save me from the night Alaskan chill.
The ferries stop at selected ports and when they arrive, everyone meets it whatever the hour. You'd better be there if you wanted to go anywhere. It wouldn't be back for another week and chartered seaplanes are so expensive.
Ketchikan at 3:30AM. Everything bustled and I heard activity sounds through my deep sleep.
I felt slight vibrations of the engines moving again and realized there was excitement around me, youthful excitment. I had just been invaded by the Sitka Women's Swim Team who had boarded after a victorious meet. I supposed they were celebrating the win but I suspected they would have celebrated whatever the outcome. Without warning I was unceremoniously flipped onto the hard deck by an exhuberant young member of the team. I Immediately realized it was "fun dumping " time, whomever.
"My gosh he's not with our gang!" she gasped, giggling as she disappeared in the dark.
No use worrying about sleep. I groped my way through the pitch black to a stairway leading to the all night coffee shop.
Winding staircases are a part of ship life. I was ascending two steps at a time coffee in hand when I abruptly faced a team member attired in a hooded sweatshirt closely drawn around her perfectly shaped face. Sitka Swim Team was prominently lettered from and back.
We jockeyed back and forth for passing room and both laughed at the stale mate. After an appraising look she gasped for breathe and placed her hand over her mouth. "OH my gosh, the guy I tipped over on deck!" "I'm so sorry!!!!".
"No sweat," I lied " I've had enough sleep already. You guys were really celebrating".
"Yeah, we won". We beat the Ketchikan. "
She reached up and pulled the hood off her head. It was clean shaven.
"Your head. Does it make you swim faster?"
" Naw, I have Leukemia."
"I'm so sorry" I muttered, flustered.
"That's ok" she laughed.
"The guys call me the Bald Eagle. I don't mind."
We talked through the rest of the night. Neither of us wanting to leave. We shared much about our families. She told me about her little sister and smiled. We talked about swim teams and other sports- everything.
Suddenly the ship made a sweep turn to the left. Sunlight crept up the stairs and settled on her beautiful face. Then she lowered her eyes and spoke in a whisper. "I'm not sure what's in store for me but I know I'm ok today, and really that's all that matters, isn't it. "
I placed a hand lightly on her arm. Barely audible I began....." hey, you're great, and it is a good day. Don"t forget, we won."
It became a spiritual moment. The feeling surrounded us, both of us, completely. There were not words and for a long time we stood there needing each other.
...It was time to go. " Hope to see you again sometime" I told her not looking. We hesitated, both of us, relectant to leave. A compulsion overcame the moment and I reached out and touched her face hoping to transfer some energy, some healing energy.
She hugged me. Hard.
Over the next several years I thought often about her. I didn't inquire because just maybe I didn't want to know.
Then I had to find out. Building courage I wrote Sitka High School. Yesterday I received a call. A call from the Principal.
My little friend had died.
I can still see her lovely face so clearly.
I didn't know her name but she will remain in my heart forever.