I rode the elevator with an old man today. After work last night, I just wanted to get home, eat, put my pjs on and watch mindless TV. Anything to distract my mind from your surgery. I waited for the service elevator in the garage, but of course it was on the 29th floor. So, I trekked up the stairs to the lobby elevators and there was a nice old man that held it open while I ran to catch it. Before the elevator door closed, the man was taking off his top coat and hat and commenting on the unseasonably warm weather that Chicago is having. (for those that live out of state it was 72 degrees yesterday). I replied with something like "I feel like I can't enjoy it because it's not right, it feels weird". I regretted saying it because I thought I was going to get a lecture about how global warming doesn't exist, yada yada... As the elevator climbed, he looked at me and chuckled, "just enjoy it today, girl" I looked up and smiled at him (little did he know), he replied to my smile with, "it's days like this that remind you any doggone thing can happen". The elevator door opened and I told him to have a great night and he said the same.
I didn't think too much about the old man in the elevator until the mindless TV was not working. I couldn't get my mind off your surgery, your awful recovery, your everything-I HATE to see you go through this! As I opened my window to get some fresh air in my place, I noticed the warmth outside. Gosh, how can I have my Christmas candles lit, and my windows open?! I stared outside and people were running in shorts and t-shirts - it's Dec. 3rd!
"it's days like this that remind you any doggone thing can happen" rang in my ear....
Brother, I am so sorry for what you are going through right now. I wish I could take it all away. But tonight I was placed in the elevator with the old man to make me realize how grateful I am that, although it's tough, the HIPAC surgery exists. I know the surgery is long, I know it will be painful, I know recovery will suck....but it exists. Knowing this surgery existed and you were a candidate for it, got us through the diagnosis, through your chemo and the days leading up to surgery. I still wish you wouldn't have to go through this, but it's days like today that remind me that any doggone thing can happen - even a surgery that can stay ahead of your aggressive cancer!
So....
My head is lifted a little higher today,
My attitude is a little bit more spunky,
All because I rode in an elevator with an old man.
I love you big brother! Your strength and positive attitude continually amaze me. You have always been the calm to my spunk, the reason to my craziness, the weight that keeps my feet on the ground when my ideas get too grande, the person I can count on to put me in my place because it's your opinion that matters to me.
Kick some butt today, brother! I know you don't like to rely on anyone for strength (or worry anyone), but I'm okay with that - I know there are two people who are giving you the strength without you knowing it - thank you dad and Aunt Sharry!
Love,
Sister
Sox it to it Lar...
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