Weekend Update - 11/25/16

I am now celebrating TWO years out since my big cancer operation. This is one of those moments for me where I am realizing how fortuitous, fluky, accidental, blessed, fortunate and just plain lucky I am to still be here breathing let alone be sitting here writing this. As this is the “Thanksgiving season” I am called upon to remind myself what I am thankful for. Please note that the following items are not listed in order of “importance” or in any other order for that matter. * All of the doctors, nurses and other staff at Emory. * The people in my life who pushed, shoved, dragged and otherwise encouraged me to get that second opinion after my initial cancer diagnosis and followup terminal cancer diagnosis. * The love, forgiveness, and patience of family and friends who have been walking with me throughout my life’s journey. * The people who have loved and continue to love me through my cancer journey so far. * The great depth of the patience and forgiveness of damn near everyone in my life as this journey unfolded and continues to unfold. * The gifts of time and resources, financial and otherwise, I have received and continue to receive from family, friends and total strangers. * All of the car rides to doctors and the ER and for sitting with me through out those adventures. * All of the nights spent with me as I was recovering. * The free sharing of the unique expertise of everyone involved in my recovery and the willingness of a few of you to see all of me in all of my glory….notably the baths and of course the wound care which was pretty gnarly. * The cancer support groups and the other cancer patients who continue to keep my perspective about me and my cancer journey in reality and me sane. * To the “powers that be” for continuing to remind me I am not alone, I am wanted, needed and expected here on this planet and I still have things to do. I did see two more of my doctors this week and blood work looks good and all else is “normal”. Now to keep this real…..my new words for my life are (drum role please) … fecal incontinence. Look that up in your Funk and Wagnalls. That is a gift that keeps on giving and is another gift of my radiation treatment. All I can do is laugh and run to the bathroom. One more thank you for everyone….. Thank you all for being here in my life. I would not be here without you. And back to my fiscal reality…… Due to my latest surgery and resultant trips to the doctors/labs things are stretched more than ever at this time so I am asking all to please share my story once again emphasizing that no amount is too small and that $10.00 - $20.00 is better than $0 dollars. A continuing big “THANK YOU” to all who have and continue to share their experience, strength, hope, time and resources. Your time and gifts are, as always, greatly appreciated and still needed. I so look forward to the day when I do not need to ask for assistance. This continues to become much more of a humbling experience. ***Please note that the 12/3/15 post in my blog is one which I encourage you to share freely.*** Please read and share my story. www.gofundme.com/j55wek