PS  I am being honored by my alma mater, Hofstra University, on February 6th.  Will be sending invites with details to everyone with the hope that maybe you can join us for a mini-reunion

Merry Christmas Joe, and to everyone else out there

Donna Murphy

I’m about 5 weeks into a writing group which I am really enjoying, and expecting it will result in my first book.  Appears that my latest experience has prompted a need to express myself in ways I had never really done before.   But it’s all coming out and the process of documenting my thoughts has been really rewarding.  If I had any idea how great this could be,  I would have started doing this long ago.  But I guess that’s one of the gifts.  At least for me,  facing my own mortality has pushed me to accept the fact that all the rules are changed.  The only constant now is everlasting change.    

Since my diagnosis I have heard of several  people who have been stricken with cancer, many of whom have been friends, some of whom who have since passed.   As I write this almost ten people come immediately to mind.  I won’t mention their names in respect for their own process……. but if you hear or know of anyone who is ill please don’t hesitate to make a call, write an email or post a message.  This phenomenon of establishing connection through the internet is a tremendous tool in keeping people apprised of others’ well being, their families and friends.  It wasn’t that long ago that what happened as a result of joesjourney was not even possible.  Yet I can truly say it has been a tremendous influence on my process, knowing so many people were out there who cared and wished me well.  These days I make a point to reach out and connect with others when I hear they have become ill, like some did for me. Feels like I’ve become part of an exclusive club  whose members carry on a responsibility,  and a gift that must be offered to others.   To let them know I once stood in their shoes……….

I believe gratefulness and appreciation has been very powerful in my healing process.  I wake up every morning now,  truly appreciating everything and everyone around me.  This new found perspective is helping me to not sweat the small stuff anymore, or at least most of it.   When I left Dr. Pietanza today I told her I was writing a book, and will be crediting her personally for curing me of cancer.  She knew I was half kidding,  but in the same breath she appreciated the recognition.  She said it made her day. 

At least from my experience doctors work hard and do their best with all their patients,  but sometimes it just doesn’t go the way we all hope. For me it was  a mixed bag containing good luck, timing, prayer, and lots of other undeterminable events that cannot be measured.  I have seen others with similar attitudes and support lose the battle,  so I am not so naïve to think that despite everything I had going for me….. things could have turned out differently .   Thus, it is the mysteries of life that has really opened a door to a new limitless world for me.  Having said that, I am going to sign off now, but stay tuned.  There is much more to come.

Much love,

Joe