Oh My Gosh, I'm having a birthday January 19th. I am turning 70. Pretty darn special if you ask me (even special if you didn't ask me) I have been in remission from cancer for over 10 years.
Today I was practicing 'gratitude' by reading through my cancer journal. Yes, the BIG "C" diary. That would be in the butt, Bob. I had T 2-3 anal cancer which had spread into the lymph system.
Scary? You are darn tooting. (No play on words there...hahahaha)
I kept every card, photo, email, letter, etc. from friends, family, co-workers, and acquaintances. All were an inspiration to help me get through surgery, chemo, and radiation. And, the days following treatment. Plus, I can't forget my dogs. They were a large part of my healing and wanting to survive.
Huge thanks to Jeanne Boudrieau (nurse extroidinaire) who actually flew from Seattle to LA to go to my oncologist's initial visit. When you have been diagnosed with cancer, you don't hear much that the doctor is saying. It becomes all 'white noise' because you are thinking about dying, not living.
My co-workers and Doctors that I worked with were unbelievably supportive. I received cards, gifts, and words of inspiration. My co-workers even gave up vacation time, so I would have additional money for the traveling expenses and so forth. I have never forgotten, nor will I ever forget.
Jeanne was there as an anchor and so was my lifetime spiritual girlfriend, Carolyn, from New York. I received emails and calls almost daily from those ladies. And, My son, Dustin, flew from Washington to LA to help me through the last of radiation. My granddaughter helped me through Chemo.
My brother was my shining light. He has the gift of gab along with a sentimentality few ever possess. His sense of humor is surpassed by none. He told me he would be standing spiritually by my side through every treatment. He sent me a photo of my Collie (the lassie type) lying under a beautiful 3 trunked Oak tree with the words, "I've enclosed a place for you to visit, when you need a place to rest." I carry that resting spot in my heart, to this day.
So that was my journey, the reader's digest version. I am thankful to be in a good spot today. No, I'm still not officially divorced. Why you ask? It's been several years. Truly, I don't know. It's okay, thus far, we are over a 1000 miles apart, which is a good thing.
Ken and his dogs came into my life just when I was searching for some KARMA. Funny, how that worked out. Even our dogs love each other. With 6 you get Eggroll (6 dogs) or just a lot of MUD in the house. Unconditional LOVE times SIX!!!! It's wonderful to have a partner to SHARE mutual interests. Ken keeps his home (RV) at the marina when he is not on the back side of Happy Valley with me.
If there is a message in this note, it's the never ending message of GRATITUDE. When you arise in the morning (especially after that first cup of coffee) give gratitude for the life you have had in the past, your life today, and the life in front of you.
I have always said, "I did the best I could do at the time and when I knew better I did better."
Maya Angelou
Live simply, love generously, care deeply, speak kindly. Leave the rest to the great spirit.
I wish you enough......
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