As a young adult, she lived the 70s and 80s single mom lifestyle, patching a life together through sheer willpower and cleverness the way so many women in her generation had to. At the same time, she led a series of Girl Scout troops and juggled cookie sales.
In the 90s she went back to school and received her nursing degree from Jackson College, going on to spend her nursing career working at the local hospital (Foote), then at a youth mental health facility.
After her first diagnosis of breast cancer, she went from patient to volunteer to staff at the American Cancer Society, running the local Reach to Recovery program, where she used her survivor experience and nursing expertise to help countless women navigate their own diagnosis.
Sandy fended off breast cancer for nearly two decades before the end. She was a lifelong crafter and hobby seamstress — everything from daily wear clothes to sewing her daughter’s prom dress and wedding dress, to sewing intricate halloween costumes for her grandsons. Sandy enjoyed nature with a highlight being her solo trip to Alaska. She was an avid Lugnuts fan and huge sci-fi reader and loved spending time with her grandsons.
Sandy had a close relationship with her brother as only siblings can, supporting each other, antagonizing each other, raising Jen, watching NASCAR, and doting on her grandchildren.
Surviving are her daughter, Jennifer (John) Estill, three grandsons Robert, Isaac, and Spencer; and her brother John. She was preceded in death by her parents Rosa (Luck) and Nelson Harland.
According to her wishes, she will be cremated and there will be no services at this time. The family will have a private celebration of life centered around her birthday this summer. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to your local office of the American Cancer Society.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at TiffanyFuneralHome.com
Arrangements are being handled by Gorsline-Runciman Tiffany Chapel, Lansing, MI.
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