Personal Journey Entry # 12

Shay and I have been enjoying a wonderful and much-needed stay in Maine this week. It is school vacation in New Hampshire, and the bus is parked for the week, so the three of us, Jazzee, too, of course, headed to Turner Highlands, our happy place. We have been able to connect with family and friends who have not escaped the Maine winter and headed to Florida and just soaked in the peace and tranquility before we return home next week to tests and appointments. The real work on beating this cancer begins on Monday.

We had one amazing Zoom meeting with Allie from the Dempsey Center. I think I was the only person on earth who had not heard of the Center and all it has to offer for cancer patients and their families, but I got up to speed quickly. Allie was typecast for her role with the Center. Her pure compassion for us came through the screen, and she was attentive to every word or nuance and was quick to match us with the services she had in her toolbag. She immediately sent us a follow-up email filled with useful links for us to peruse and educate ourselves to prepare for this journey. One of the exciting offerings was to the Imerman Angels, which is another service for cancer families to be matched with a mentor who has traveled the same journey successfully to help guide us along the way. She gave us much to add to our already incredible support team.

We also came across a powerful video yesterday afternoon of a singer who touched both of our hearts. The song she sang so beautifully conjured up a ton of emotion and thoughts. It is said at a point in life you have more yesterdays than tomorrows. I am not done counting tomorrows just yet. I am more committed every day to being healthy again. I am not afraid, for I have God, my Shay, and the greatest support team I could ask for on my side. Bring it on. Let’s get this cancer beaten. There is too much living yet to do.

Love you all, and God Bless.