A Day of Reflection

Today is a Day of Reflection for me. After a routine colonoscopy, I heard those dreaded words "You have cancer." I'll never forget it as long as I live. I was numb. All I could think about was my husband and how he was going to react. How did he react? (You see, prior associations with family/friends who was diagnosed with cancer died within months.) He said that "WE have cancer" not just me! He has been my rock thru it all. That was five years ago today. The prognosis wasn't real good. I had surgery where a section of my colon was removed. Today, I am cancer free. I have my regular appointment with my Oncologist this coming Thursday. If all is well (and I pray it will be), I will only have to go see him annually from this point forward. This is a major milestone! I am my own Hero. I know this sounds vain, but hey I kicked cancer's butt I have a right to celebrate!

I look at life differently now and do not take anything for granted. Life can change quicker than the blink of an eye. I'm so thankful and grateful to God as I know it was His healing powers that saved me. I often think "what if" they had told me I only had 5 years to live? What would I have missed?

I was around to see my husband retire after working for over 33 years at the power plant; my third grandchild was born; my youngest son got married and blessed me with a wonderful daughter-in-law; I retired from my 20+ year job as office manager; I have renewed relationships with some old friends; I have a wonderful group of quilting buddies -- the Wacky Pack that I LOVE to be with; I spent an entire month in Europe visiting several countries; I went on a quilting cruise in the Caribbean with the Wacky Pack Quilters; I did the 'zip-line thing' in Honduras and just "knew" I was going to die!; I've witnessed healing in sibling relationships in my DH's family; I watched my oldest son make a career change that required sacrifices on the part of his family and himself -- he is now a Fireman in Houston, TX, and found his calling. I have witnessed my youngest son graduating from Texas A&M and watched his career SOAR and him become so successful! I am so proud of both of my sons. I have started another career as the Director of Senior Services/Transit in Freestone County. It is a great job and one where I truly feel I make a difference in lives. As a result of this job, I have a new set of friends that I consider a true blessing in my life. I have won a couple of awards with my quilts. I have made quilts for both sons, daughters-in-law and grandchildren plus other friends. I was so scared I wouldn't get this accomplished. I could go on and on, but I'll stop now. I am just so happy and proud on this 5th anniversary of a very life-changing event.