Happy Thanksgiving!
October 10, 2010
Happy Thanksgiving to everyone! Take some time this season to be thankful for family and friends, and to be grateful for what you have or, perhaps, do not have. The fall season provides us with such a beautiful array of colours to enjoy; and as I write this, it is a warm, bright, sunny day here in Sidney, B.C.
Last Tuesday, I went for my annual check-up at the cancer clinic. I am happy to report that I am still cancer free or in remission as they like to say. My blood work was excellent and I do not have to see my oncologist for another year. Too bad, really, I like him. He understands me and I so appreciated his working with me to eradicate cancer from my body. While another oncologist, would not listen to my alternative suggestions, he did. He may not have totally agreed with me; but at the same time he did not disagree. I believe he is now seeing the fruits of my labour. Even though my immune system has been compromised, it is now strong. Working with young children every day: I am quite healthy and do not get the many colds and flu that seem to be going around.
This thanksgiving, once again, I realize how great it is to be alive and am truly thankful for all the blessings that I have. Some have said that I was robbed during those years from 2001 to 2006 when I was dealing with the cancer. Looking back, I don't see it that way. It was definitely a difficult time in my life and brought many challenges. But, I have learned so much about how to take care of myself, physically, emotionally and spiritually. I believe that I have gained a deeper respect for life and the things that truly matter, like family and friends. The work-a-holic in me is gone and I am not the perfectionist that I once was. I have also learned to say, "No!" when it just isn't right for me.