A friend of mine passed away last week. We first knew each other as colleagues, working for the same school district. Lisa, through her work in Human Resources, provided support to me in my role as principal. We had passing conversations and exchanged the usual pleasantries over a period of years. Lisa's health journey was such that she had to take leave from her position with the district in order to focus on her health. Soon after, I retired, and was diagnosed with cancer.
It was through my diagnosis that our paths crossed again. Lisa contacted me to let me know that I was in her thoughts and prayers as I began my journey with my uninvited guest. At the time, she was resting and preparing, through daily exercise and physio, to undergo a double lung transplant. We had an opportunity to bond a little closer as we both dealt with the challenges that our health had thrown our way.
Although Lisa underwent her transplant in early April of this year. What followed was a series of ups and downs, progress and setbacks. Eventually the challenges and setbacks took their toll. Throughout her struggles, Lisa shared an optimism and a joy for the little things that profoundly touched those of us who followed her story.
I have found myself whispering a silent prayer this past week. I am sure it was one that often found a home in Lisa's heart as well...Just one more day, please Lord, give me just one more day.
I have been blessed. My battle with cancer is, for the moment, complete. I have been able to return to most of the activities that I did before my treatments. I have been given one more day. Each morning now brings with it the realization that I have been given one more day. How blessed can one be? Each morning my lovely wife Annette greets me with a hug and calls me her daily blessing. I am blessed to have one more day.
I am sure that when my end comes, whether it be sudden or anticipated, I will find myself wishing for just one more day. One more day to see the sun, to share with family, to say I love you. One more day to make a difference, to make amends. I hope, in my heart, that like Lisa, when that day arrives, I will go peacefully, knowing that I have made good use of the days given to me: that I will have said I love you often enough, that I will have made a difference, that I will have made amends.
All I need is just one more day...
2 comments :
Don, I was reading a few of your posts and had a question about your blog. I was wondering if you could please email me back whenever you get the chance, thanks so much.
- Emily
HI Emily, I have been away from the blog for a while, and just came across your comment. Please email me at recreatingfamily@shaw.ca as I would like to connect with you and answer your question!
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