Today as Lee and I were leaving to go to our church, I turned and looked at him. He looked so handsome in his new sports coat (one that fits and does not look so large!). It seems we both spoke at the same time, acknowledging how nice it was to be able to attend church again. Even though the weather was overcast with threatening rain, we felt the warmth of the day for the blessing of being able to resume our normal Sunday as before Lee's illness.
We are constantly aware of how important time is, and why we have to stop and speak of our deep appreciation of having that time once again. I suppose it is kin to the movie that Lee and I saw five or six years ago called "The Bucket List". At the time, we were only concerned about seeing two of our favorite actors portraying two senior guys and how they decided to spend the rest of their lives (which was, by the way, being shortened due to a diagnosis of cancer). Our anticipation was centered around the humorous aspects of the movie. It was only after we were leaving that the impact of what we had been watching really occurred to us...................time is valuable.................do what you most desire when the opportunities arise.
Looking back on the choices we made these past ten or so years, we are glad that we made those trips and did not wait for another time. We are glad we have spent so many wonderful weeks at the beach with our children and grandchildren. Lee is happy that he took that balloon ride many years ago when he visited his middle son in California. We have been fortunate to enjoy retirement, knowing that we were successful in our chosen careers, and that we gave it our best.
Looking ahead with the memories in the background, we still have things to do. Lee is committed to helping others along the way who may be experiencing the decision to have an organ transplant. He is also busy with some speaking engagements that encourage others to seriously consider becoming an organ donor. I, too, have become somewhat of an encourager to others based on my experience with cancer, and my time as a caregiver for Lee. We hope, that somehow, along our life's journey, we have had a positive influence on others we have met. We are grateful for all those who have had a positive influence on us as they have shared their life stories. Each day I listen as I hear Lee's prayers lifted up in thankfulness for yet another day. He doesn't ask for more, he has a grateful heart for all he has been given.
We will be returning to Duke next week for all the tests, etc. on January 12. This will require two overnights for us, and we plan to leave on Wednesday and return on Friday. It will be a very long day for Lee on Thursday: Clinic in a.m............see Dr. @ 1:00........bronchoscopy @ 3:15. We will probably be in the clinic from 8:00 a.m. through 7:00 pm. Good to stay at Duke Towers and get a restful night before returning.
I had my first cataract surgery this past Wednesday..............very pleased so far. Easy procedure! Unbelievable!
More Later...............................Brenda
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