Hi all – Charles again,
I want to express, if I possibly can, to all you friends and family how deeply grateful I am for all you have done for us. I’m not sure I have the vocabulary, or if the vocabulary exists, but here goes. I can mark this intense journey for us by a few images that capture the progression well. A few weeks after Hilary was diagnosed in November of last year, there were times I saw her lying in a despondent heap on the floor, with no will to get up, frighteningly thin, and enveloped by what amounted to her biggest fear coming true. This memory is now nearly obliterated by what is our current reality. Hilary did handstands while speaking to a group at Livestrong. She did a handstand this morning in the hotel. She used to run to and from chemo (this fact is what makes her stand out in Dr. Curley, the surgeon’s, mind). She now views her cancer not as a terrifying monster, but as a teacher that will move on once we have learned what we’re supposed to learn. The transformation has been inspiring for me and for many people and I am so, so proud of her. She said this morning that she doesn’t think she has cancer any more and that this surgery is just due diligence. I believe it.
None of this transformation nor the steady shrinking of cancer that has happened since last November would have happened without all of you. You have checked in through all the possible channels to remind us how much we are cared for. You have taken great care of our kids and made them feel safe when we needed it. You have interrupted your lives to fly in and help. You have supplied dinners and treats. You have given countless gifts and you have paid for the things that are pillars for Hilary’s health. You have prayed for us and sent your vibes of goodness at every step of the way. The list goes on and I am overwhelmed thinking about all the things you have done for us. This cancer is on the way out. I am grateful for Gemzar and Cisplatin (her chemo) and how well Hilary responded, but I truly believe that what has been more important in reversing the direction of cancer has been the fabric of love and support that you have created and wrapped around us. That is what she has truly responded to.
For that, I thank you with all my heart.
Love,
Charles
