We acknowledged each other this weekend. I accepted his/her presence and told him/her to get lost for at least 50 more years. I realized something. I’m not scared of my treatments, of the surgery, or even of death. I accept my mortality……just not yet. I feel lucky to have been given this opportunity to take a much more introspective look at myself. I’m trying to figure out how I can live a better life for my husband, my children, and me. In just 2 and 1/2 short weeks, this experience has brought me closer to my husband, to my children, and to my family and friends. For this, I will be grateful.
In thinking, I was reminded of James Valvano, known as Jimmy V. Jimmy V was a basketball coach who became famous for leading North Carolina State to win the NCAA Tournament in 1983 against the odds. Valvano is also famous for his ESPY Awards speech which he gave in 1993 just 8 weeks before he died of cancer. His speech stressed the importance of hope, love, and persistence and included his famous, “Don’t give up, don’t ever give up” quotation. I’d like to share part of his speech with you.
To me, there are three things we all should do every day. We should do this every day of our lives. Number one is laugh. You should laugh every day. Number two is think. You should spend some time in thought. And number three is, you should have your emotions moved to tears, could be happiness or joy. If you laugh, you think, and you cry, that’s a full day. That’s a heck of a day. You do that seven days a week, you’re going to have something special.
Valvano’s ESPY acceptance speech became legendary, and he closed by saying, “Cancer can take away all of my physical abilities. It cannot touch my mind, it cannot touch my heart, and it cannot touch my soul. And those three things are going to carry on forever. I thank you and God bless you all.”
Each one of us could learn something from Jimmy V.
LIVESTRONG and God Bless!
Barb,
I’ve recently heard what you and your family is going through. I was shocked! I remember talking to you at the little league days before you had the baby! Reading this blog makes me think about life and how we take it for granted. Just reading this blog makes me want to live a better life! You are so strong and inspiring.
Thoughts and prayers,
Jeanna
Those are definitely three things I need to make sure I do everyday. Thanks for the inspiration! 🙂
Hi Barb, I have read your posts and am truly moved by your strength. having cancer really challenges you to change your whole world. Prayers come your way. We hope you have a long and healthy life. Cherish every moment, that is what we are all suppose to do. May God bless you and your family. Love, Bernie and Dave
Barb, Your blog has made me laugh, cry and think. I’d say that’s pretty special, too. (I just had to get a tissue because right now I’m crying.)
Hi, I am sure you can’t place me but I have been John Rowlands’ better half for more than 45 years. we are both keeping you in our thoughts and prayers (but as I told your Mother, I’m hoping God overlooks my lapsed Methodist’s overlooking Him). I have spent much money playing in ahd supporting my women’s golf league’s Rally for the Cure since we all have family members who have battled and won!!! I can’t fathom your courage but knowing your parents helps explain your outlook for me. I will continue to read your blogs; I think of you daily and your beautiful family. Our love and prayers. Sallie and John