Why is this man smiling?

Because we just got great news from the doctor! The results of Steve's PET scan are clear so he's cancer free and we hope he'll stay that way. He'll get the port removed from his chest next week. That's always been sort of the big sign for us that this ordeal may really be behind us.

He had the PET scan about a week ago and, although neither of us was willing to admit it, we were both scared about the results... waiting for the other shoe to drop. I didn't want Steve to know I was worried about it because he didn't seem worried and I didn't want to start him on that path. And he felt the same way. But when Dr. Stephenson walked into the exam room yesterday and pronounced Steve clear of cancer, we both let out an audible sign of relief.



We had a glass of champagne to celebrate - a big deal since we really don't drink anymore and I finally removed the LIVESTRONG support bracelet I have worn for just about a year. I always said I would wear it until this was behind us and last night, i finally felt it really was.

I don't want to throw this away; I would rather give it to someone else who can benefit from the strength of the message.


We walked out of the cancer center yesterday and Steve rang the bell (again!). He got resounding applause from the patients and caregivers. One of the nurses told us they had 90 people doing Chemo on monday. More than 400 people in a week.

Each and every one exhibits heroism. Few people I have met on this journey are grumpy or whiney or pitying. Most are upbeat and encouraging, many have faith to sustain them, nearly all have a loved one at their side. But each and every one gets up each day and says "No matter how crappy I feel, or how sick it makes me, I am not letting this disease get me." And they fight it with faith, with love, with good humor and above all, with hope.


They applaud when you ring the bell because you are an embodiment of that hope - another one who made it out alive. As we walked out, I couldn't help but think we should turn around and applaud them! Those who wait with just a hope to keep them getting up each morning.


I am not a relgious person, but God bless them. Every one.