Have you ever had those days when you just feel down? That despite all the wonderful things happening in your world, you get bogged down in the minutae, the little things that can seem overwhelming?
Then I read something like this, and everything changes. Because that link in the previous sentence isn't to some anonymous blog. It's to a friend's blog.
Gloria is one of the most amazing women I've ever met. She was president of our class at Duke, graduating near the top of our class; then, she and her boyfriend (how cute are they, meeting in their freshman dorm?) went on to thrive at Stanford law. In fact, I don't know if Gloria has ever not succeeded at anything.
And I know cancer is no exception...
That's right, you heard correctly: cancer.
Gloria is facing a Stage 4 colon cancer diagnosis. How's that for real life? How's that for bring-you-down, defeating, debilitating news? But Gloria is vowing to "Kick Cancer's A$$", and is going to write about it on her brand new blog. When I read her news (first last month on Facebook, then again last week on her new blog), my first thought was, "What can I do?" I'm on the opposite side of the country from her. We haven't really spoken since our college days. How can I help?
So, my plea to you is to take care of your own health. Have you been putting off your yearly pap smear? Get it down now. Is your mother due for a mammogram? Urge her to make an appointment. Is your husband avoiding a colonoscopy? It can't wait.
I'm sharing her website with you, in hopes that you will think of her, pray for her, be a champion for her. Even if she never knows you're out there, I believe that your support will make the difference for her. Gloria's a fighter, and she can and will beat this terrible disease... and hopefully, our help will make her just that much stronger.
This entry was posted
on Wednesday, October 20, 2010
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How devastating, but how incredibly inspiring!! I wish nothing but the best for Gloria. Her attitude is just amzaing. Even more of a reason I see her kicking cancer's ass!
when i read your post, i couldn't believe what a small world it is. gloria's story came to me about a month ago. you see, she is an alum of my high school..while i didn't know her...i am a bit older than she...she is my sister...i pray for her each day...as do the sisters who taught her. thank you for highlighting her story.
I love Gloria's attitude. While I hate she is going through it, I love how you are taking her experience and turning it into a reminder for us all to take care of our health.
Thanks for sharing!
I am prayer for her and her family. Thanks for the info.
On no, seriously??? Gloria? I am shocked and overwhelmed and just so sad to hear this news. She is such a sweet and amazing person, this is not fair. Why her? That sucks. Thank you for letting me know this news.
having been around the block with cancer and family way too many times... I will add her to my prayers! Having a positive attitude and support is half the battle! =) May she and all those touched by her life be surprisingly blessed during this hard journey!!