Three year mark!

On November15, 2014 it was three years since our son had Pancreatic Cancer surgery, at the age of 29!  He is a survivor! November 15th he started his 4th-year post-op cancer free!  Words cannot describe how saying, hearing, and writing those words...cancer-free-survivor resonates in my heart! 

One of my all-time favorite scriptures is "and she (Mary) treasured all these things in her heart" (Luke 2:19). I have an overflowing heart of treasured things and at these "anniversary" times I am filled with many emotions!  Since Matt was given this 2nd chance, he has been diligent to fight for the 96% that learn they have pancreatic cancer, but don't survive.  He has become their voice.  This cause is his cause. He has been very influential in getting proclamations throughout our towns in our state of Delaware for November to be recognized as Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month.  He and the affiliate group travel to the state and country levels of government to be the voice for those who can't, for more awareness, as well as funding for more research to find more ways for detection, and eventually a cure. 

I'm able to see all of this in action and be a small part of the efforts through our support and volunteering beside him.  One promotion that all of the affiliates made aware through social media and other forms of advertisement, was World Pancreatic Day and that is a day where all are asked to wear #PurpleWithAPurpose.  Personally seeing all those friends, co-workers, acquaintances that participated was a mixed-blessing.  Many wore in honor of our Matt, in honor of his passion, his purpose, his 2nd chance, as well as those that are fighting and those that fought until the end!  My emotions, once again, on that day, were had to explain but, again...I treasured and pondered them all in my heart!

Thankful for each day that our family is given.  It may be a great day, or an okay day, but we all know that it is a gift and we all try to use it in a manner worthy of the gift.

Here's to 2nd chances, or as I define it, 2nd purposes (reasons for all things).  Happy 3rd and welcome 4th! #wagehope

Happy 3-years Cancer Free!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 Delaware's Governor Jack Markell signing the Proclamation declaring the state of Delaware recognizing November as Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month!  Some of the Delaware Affiliate Group.

Purple-Light-The-Night October 2014 (Congressional Hall, Dover, DE)