today i’m hosting a potluck for two of my former co-workers who are 7 and 14 years cancer free. it’s inspirational to hear them recount that period in their lives: how unexpected the cancer was, how there was no question in their mind that they would beat it, how their family and friends came together to provide them with contacts, resources, and support to help them get through it.
today, they’re living – and living loudly. one is a mother of two, a giants and warriors fanatic, and set to retire from the agency in a couple of years. the other went on to complete her phd and received her lcsw AND is now the coo of the agency. both are hilarious, outspoken, and often inappropriate — which is why i love them so much!
today i pay tribute to them, but also remember my loved ones, acquaintances, and colleagues who have lost their lives to cancer. it’s frightening to me how little progress we’ve made in understanding the disease, its causes, and alternative cures other than radiation. i’m sure a lot of the technologies and products that we use today aren’t exactly helping us live healthier lifestyles (i mean, hello cellphones aka mini-microwaves for the brain!).
but let me not end this post on a sour note. today is about celebrating life. cheers to J&K — le cheim!
Will Dao 