Nearly four years ago, my mother was diagnosed with cancer. This disease affects virtually everyone, at some point in their lifetime. Whether you receive a diagnosis personally, or someone you love does, it knows no boundaries…no age, no sex, no ethnicity. When someone receives a cancer diagnosis, it does not affect them alone, it affects the entire circle of family and friends. It takes a village, no one fights alone!
At age 89, Mom was experiencing abdominal discomfort. Doctors quickly determined it was Ovarian Cancer. The extent of the disease was unknown, but my mother was in terrible pain. The decision was made to operate. A risky operation with a low survival rate for a woman of her age. I still remember saying goodbye to my mother that morning. Ninety minutes later the surgeon returned to the family with the news. A 17-pound tumor, the size of a watermelon, was removed from mom. She had survived the operation, but the prognosis was grim. It was a very aggressive cancer and she was given six more months of life.
Those last few months were a blessing from God. Our family shared so much time together. We all enjoyed mom’s 90th birthday with family from all across the county. It was more than a birthday party. It was a celebration of her life. It was a great day!
Shortly after her birthday, the cancer rapidly progressed. To watch a loved one die of cancer is beyond description. The pain, the fear, the physical and mental anguish is wrenching. And the toll it takes upon the family is grueling. I remember mom’s fear. And, I remember mom’s sadness of leaving her family and grandchildren. But mostly, I remember her faith. A faith that carried her through the pain, the sadness and to the joy that she would one day be with God.
So why am I going “Over the Edge”? I am doing it to honor my mother, and all mothers that have battled cancer. I am doing it for all families that have fought this battle together. I am petrified of heights. I cannot begin to express my fear of heights. But if my mother can overcome her fear, the least I can do is overcome mine to raise money to help families in need.
Please join me in my efforts by making a donation to help fund Gilda’s Club, thus allowing them to continue to provide resources for patients, survivors, and their family and friends.