"A handicap placard, an athlete, and Nancy..."

“A handicap placard, an athlete, and Nancy…”

Today I was somewhat efficient at work. We had to have grades verified as the quarter is over, and I successfully managed to complete that task. I was pleased that spring break actually started today, and no students were present as it was a teacher workday. Seeing my students is especially difficult right now. Since I’ve no children of my own, I oftentimes think I probably have a different type of energy regarding starting my day at school, as I don’t have them at home to deal with. Not to say that those who have children have less energy, but I oftentimes think I’m blessed I don’t have them 24/7.

I’m also slowly getting into a take-charge stage. I realized that the chemo and radiation are going to drastically affect my energy levels, so I called my local Doctor and asked for a “handicap placard.” I had to get one several months ago for my mother. My mother is 84, and that equated to the typical stages of her life, and was normal for her aging process.

As a relatively healthy, {insert oxy-moronic humor there…..} and active 47 year old, getting a handicap placard for myself was absolutely bizarre. I’ve always been extremely athletic, could pretty much pick up any sport I tried, and even managed to play college basketball, volleyball and softball. Golf is now the sport I’m obsessed with, and I’m just getting to where I’m pretty decent at it. To think that my activity levels are going to change is mind- boggling. Instead of spending this next week of spring break golfing, I’ll be spending my time in Kansas City fighting like a little pit bull. It’s my own journey to conquer my own internal Mt. Everest. I’ve got a mountain to climb, and I hope to place a little victory flag atop it, or at least get through all the base camps at different intervals.

I received a lovely card today from the mother of one of my high school friends, Nancy. Nancy’s sister is also married to the brother of Cathy Glennon, one of my two guardian angels (along with my sister, Janie) who pointed me down the road to treating this cancer. Nancy had a TBI several years ago, and I found her mother's note very inspiring and insightful, and full of advice and hope. It’s unfortunate that life throws us curve balls, but, while humankind is beautiful, it’s also cursed with sadness. We all have our own journeys and crosses to bear. It is unfair.

I’ve been blessed that I have so many people rooting, praying and thinking about me. I’ve never liked to be the center of attention or the belle of the ball, but in receiving this bad news, I'm genuinely appreciative and respectful of the masses who have expressed hope and prayers for me. It comforts a mind that's racing and darting about. I’m truly blessed.

My husband comes home tonight after midnight from his business trip. I’m looking forward to seeing him.

Make sure you take the time to stop, reflect, appreciate and absorb life. It changes in a nano-second.

Much Love,
Julie