Well, friends. The chemo honeymoon is over. My latest scans showed growth in three of my tumors so it is time to go back on the drugs. Disappointing, but not surprising. Those cancer cells are tricky, and cancer continues to suck. I still feel fortunate to have a world class cancer hospital in my backyard and there are still treatments available. But enough about cancer…it doesn’t deserve my time…instead, I would like to tell you a love story.
My husband, Mark, is my soulmate. I know those words are cliche, but I knew I wanted to marry him on our very first date. Lucky for me, he agreed. I met Mark in 1992 at Worthingway Middle School. Mark was teaching social studies and I was a substitute teacher. I must say, he is the best thing that has ever happened to me. He is my rock, my safe tree, my best friend, and the love of my life. Our marriage has survived two kids, Mark’s life threatening skiing accident, the loss of both of our fathers in the same year, and now, cancer.
All of these things are hard. Raising kids, loss, illness. I can’t imagine surviving any one of them without him. He is truly my partner in life. We face challenges together and are stronger because of it.
People ask me how I remain positive, how I keep going, how I survive. It is because the stars aligned and I met the right person at the right time. That’s it. I have amazing family and friends who support me. But my Mark…he is my everything. Enjoy the party, my friends.
