A lesson from dad...

A year and a half ago cancer struck our family broadside and left us is ruins. My dad in his sixties very active retired and at the prime of his life. He never once complained of his health but never ignored it. He was diligent with his health and took care of himself. He had been complaing of fatigue and abdominal pain. After a couple weeks of feeling miserable he was brought by ambulance. His appendix had ruptured and when in surgery they found a piece that was abnormal and sent out for testing. The tests confirmed is was cancer and we were shocked. The piece was the size of your small pinky finger but yet they wanted him to receive treatment for preventative care. I don't consider myself a daddy's girl but have a good relationship with my dad. I was scared and so was my mom and brother. He underwent treatment for six months and now is cancer free. A great success story and I learned through his illness to live in the moment and to not live in the past or future. I wanted to help and be of support. He is very old fashioned and not a man for sentimental words but he was happy to know I was there. In a time of crisis how do react? Do you shut down and ignore what is going on or do you roll up your sleeves and dig in? This past month of October was his birthday. I was so happy that he was here with us to celebrate and we were able to have those memories. I love my dad and I am thankful. Even though Thanksgiving is around the corner I am thankful and grateful everyday.