I've had several reminders this weekend that it's time to post my own reminder to all of you - yes, it's that time of year.
The first person I ever knew who was diagnosed with cancer was my father. I was in 9th grade.
The first person I watched slowly die from it was my uncle, five years ago.
The first time I sat through a chemo treatment was with my mom, just a few month after my wedding.
I could tell a dozen stories of cancer, just in my family. You all have stories too. Many of you have very recent ones. Several of you are living those stories now.
My heart hurts for those who are still writing their stories, because I know how hard it is to wait. Wait for the test, then wait for the diagnosis. If it's not good, wait for more tests, wait for a treatment plan, wait for the treatment to start, then wait to see if it worked... Waiting sucks. Even now, with my mom as healthy as she's ever been, we are always waiting on that next PET scan just to be sure.
So what am I talking about? It's that time of year when you start seeing fundraisers for Relay for Life pop up all over the country. I don't care if you don't have money to give, you can still support them. Don't know of any Relay teams near you? Let me know, I know of several. My mom's team is having a silent auction. My cousin is captain of her team in her father's memory and they raised $1,000 last weekend with a garage sale in Arkansas. If you can't give money, give time, give stuff, give something. Cancer isn't something that goes away on it's own, but because of continued research and support it does see more survivors than ever. Help make more survivors.
If ACS isn't your favorite cancer charity, pick another one. Lukemia and Lymphoma Sociey. Participate in the Run from the Sun to fight melanoma or the Susan G Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. I know my family has been effected by them all, and that list is the tip of the iceberg.
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6 comments:
You, my friend, are awesome.
All I can say is..."Thank You".
Allison - I'd been meaning to tell you that I was glad to see your dad's cancer tests came back negative, but hate that he's still searching for answers. I've been praying for your family!
Lynn - You know what made me think to post this today particularly? Your dad had a cameo in one of my crazy dreams last night (along with Paw). He was standing in the kitchen at Grandma's and wanted me to pick him up some stamps when I went into town! I dunno, but I woke up thinking about them both and wishing I could get back to sleep in time to spend a little more time there. I miss them both.
Susan, I just realized I CAN MEET YOUR MOM!!! We are doing the Neshoba County Relay this year! WOOHOO! Please please please tell me you will be here May 8 to make that lap with her! I'll be walking that lap with my Mom too. Thank God.
May 8. I'll put it on the calendar. She hadn't told me the exact date. I just thought about the fact that somewhere I have a couple dozen pictures of her walking that first lap holding the banner her first year after her cancer. She was one of the honorary chairs. I just can't remember whose camera I had that night! We walked lots of laps that year. LOTS.
That is so great that you dreamed of them both. I watched my wedding video and just cried (and laughed--at Paw running the truck in the ditch. h/h). Parker said "You miss your daddy don't you?" I just cried more and said "yes I do...very much". I love having the dreams of him. Like you...I try to go back to sleep and dream more. Those are good nights.
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