Strength and Faith

As those of you who keep up with the blog have probably noticed, it's been a while since I last wrote something on this page. It's not as if things have not been happening in our lives, for you simply cannot have a 7 year old and a 2 year old in the same family and not have something to write about. No, my lack of print has more to do with my state of mind, and my need to understand fairness in our universe.

My mother, who 23 years ago battled cancer and seemingly won, has once again been diagnosed with this terrible disease. I am almost at a loss for words to describe the thunder clapping shock I received when I was told the news. How does someone who sacrificed so much 23 years ago, get called upon again? It just doesn't seem fair.

I realize that we all have test in our lives. We all face decisions that shape, mold, or alter our paths of existence. Mom faced her last cancer battle with dignity and showed courage beyond reproach. It was a tough fight, and although cancer took one of her breasts and all of the lymph nodes on one side of her body, it did not take her spirit, her will, or her fight. I was just a stupid 20 year old kid at the time this happened, and did not fully understand the gravity of the situation, nor the brevity of human life. I am much older and wiser, and now fully understand both with emphatic clarity.

Mom is brave, and I am deeply proud of the way in which she carries herself in times of great adversity. I know this new bout with cancer will be approached with the same determination and moxie that she displayed in the past. It will require another mastectomy, and chemo-therapy. Difficult to say the least, and her strength will once again be tested. Needless to say, we will all continue to do everything in our power to insure that she can overcome her latest setback, and resume a normal life.

As you have read on this page in the past, Lori is actively involved in breast cancer charities. It's a very noble cause, and I am very proud of her desire, persistence, and compassion. Her commitment to this cause is very personal, even more so now, and for this reason she is participating in this year's Komen 3 day walk. On November 6th-8th, she and two of her friends, will join the thousands of other walkers, and set off on their 3 day, 60 mile journey. Her web site can be found on the entry just below this blog. Please visit her site to read about her commitment, and if you know of anyone who would like to donate to a very personal cause, please forward her website to them.


Fair or not, mom is faced with a tough challenge. It will take every ounce of her strength to persevere. Please keep my mother in all of your prayers, and ask for her strength to remain undaunted. With all of our help, she can win this fight.

I love you mom.

William