Day +285: Greener Pastures

One year ago today, I was released from the hospital after 2 months as an inpatient, having gone into remission following my second round of induction chemotherapy.

Tonight, as I prepare to go to sleep, many things run through my mind. I’m grateful to be in my own bed, with the window open…fresh air flowing in. For fresh grass, forsythia bushes, blooming dogwood trees and singing birds. For family. For friends who have become my family. For the donor who gave a part of herself to save my life. For my oncologist, whom I almost didn’t stay with because he wasn’t warm and fuzzy. And the list goes on, and on. The fact is, my life has changed in so many ways, it would take all the words in me and more, to put them on paper.

But, even as I give thanks for all that I have been blessed with, I remain sober tonight. Mindful that there are so many others fighting this battle, including someone in my inner circle, just recently diagnosed.

For that friend – and for all those on the journey to cure – I pray for healing. For strength. For light, and joy, in the midst of your pain. This disease sucks. Plain and simple. But fight it with everything in you. And remember…you’ve got friends. Lean on them. They hold you up when you can’t remember how.

You’ve Got a Friend, James Taylor