One more post about the 2014 Challenge- This time from my Mom.
When Dan was first diagnosed with fibrolamellar in 2005 our entire
family was devastated. How could such a young, happy person have cancer?
As parents how do you swallow your own fear in order to console and
encourage your child that everything will be ok?
Dan was a true soldier. His war was with cancer and he refused to let
fibrolamellar dictate his life. We took it for granted that Dan had won
his battle as the scans continued to show he was cancer free. But
cancer was not yet finished with Dan. The cheating scumbag disease
returned with a vengeance and once more Steve and I heard the awful news
one more time from Dan, "Cancer's back and it's not good." Once more we
entered the battle along Dan's side not knowing where we would end-up
this time. Dan won his battle and we are forever proud.
LIVESTRONG meant a lot to Dan. Not only did he help others with his
fundraising it was another way to show cancer he was a winner. When we
went into the tent where he got his survivor bib I had to hide my tears
as I pinned it to his back. He then filled out a memory card for Aunt
Eileen, Unker and Grandpa. Dan rode the race like a man possessed,
winning without even training as if to say, "Up yours fibrolamellar!"
Tears again flowed when he was presented with his yellow rose.His
strength and determination were so inspirational!
2014 was the first time Steve and I actually participated in the walk (there's no way I can bike the terrain around Montco with my knee)
although we supported LIVESTRONG and Dan by making sure he achieved his
fundraising goal and cheering him on. I thought of Dan with every step I
took and thanked God for giving him to us even for such a short time. I
thought about how lucky I am to have Steve at my side each and every
day and how proud I am of Laura and Patrick and all of their
accomplishments. David is truly the light of our lives!
Thank you to all of our family and friends who once again reminded us
that we will never walk alone by taking part in the event and/or
donating. Together we keep Dan's dream alive - no more cancer - no more
tears!
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