I am a 39 year old mother of three young children. I am battling stage IV stomach cancer, the second deadliest cancer in the world. My team of doctors at MD Anderson has said that I’m incurable. Today, I am taking cutting edge medications through clinical trials attempting to extend my time with my family. The hope I cling to is that every drug was a miracle drug for someone. I have cancer, but cancer doesn’t have me.
We know how difficult life can be for a young family when cancer strikes. At a time of life when children keep family life very busy, money is stretched, and quiet time is precious, suddenly, there is a whole new aspect to their lifestyle. Doctor’s visits, chemotherapy, radiation and surgery become normal parts of the family’s dinner conversation. Also, you have to keep up with the demands of three kids’ schedules and keeping up a house.
 I am very thankful that today I have energy and time for all of those things. It is very difficult to lie in bed and watch life pass you by. I want to be running the race of life also. I am very excited that I am able to run in this race. I feel honored that my husband wanted to take on a huge task of putting on this triathlon. I feel blessed that so many people, businesses, and friends are joining us for a memory making day. Our community and our neighborhood are fitter and closer than ever before due to the wonderful job that everyone has done.
The biggest thing that I have learned through cancer is that life has become precious to us. I used to have my focus on everything having to be perfect…the house spotless, the laundry done, and dinner on the table every night. Now, we try to not put off ‘til tomorrow a memory that we can make together today.
I know that at the end of the triathlon we will all be hot, sweaty, and part of a new group….triathletes!!!!
I hope that everyone will wear their t-shirts proudly the day after the race.
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