Still Kicking...

Well, surgery #4 in my semi rock hard abs area is done (was actually last Fri), I’m thinking the rock hardiness these days is more from scar tissue than time in the gym…  this has been an interesting experience in that this definitely cancer related process has had nothing to do with where the actual cancer was.  (Basically, over time, some old suture line areas failed in my stomach muscle)

But what it showed me once again was just how much support I have from my friends, both physically and virtually, and for that I am truly thankful.  Kristi got the up front and personal experience (and my thanks!) and was truly awesome, getting to deal with everything from delivery, to my general ambivalence to yet another surgery, all the way through me “accidentally” escaping afterwards, not wanting to be wheeled out according to SOP…

Add in the great messages of support / concern over facebook, twitter, and email and I truly felt blessed more than sore by the time I was out of recovery.  I have had to promise to be a good patient and can only walk for exercise for a couple of weeks, but I’ll take that over the chance of having to do op #5.  I’ve had enough cutting and pasting in this area for a lifetime, and I’m glad to say it’s over and even happier to say I’m still here – and blessed.  So thanks for all the support, ciao for now, and we’ll talk soon – Cb…

PS - I spoke the following day at SXSWi on behalf of LIVESTRONG with the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of  America, check them out at www.iava.org - they're doing some solid work!

When Is a Wall Not Just a Wall?

There’s a lot of inspiration here at LIVESTRONG HQ but one that gets the attention of the staff here daily is our new tribute wall.  We’d been asked before how people could have a permanent presence here at the HQ, and we’d considered things like a “buy a brick” program, but it didn’t really resonate with us.  But with a little creative thought and inspiration, the main wall of our server room is now a place of real honor…

The idea is based on the LIVESTRONG rider / runner cards that people wear on their shirts while participating in any number of our athletic events.  You get the chance to show others who you’re there for, either In Memory of or In Honor of, or if you’re a cancer survivor to show your pride in that manner.  Then when people come up on you – or you pass them! – it’s a great reminder of the larger reason we’re participating.

But as I said before, for the staff it’s something we walk by time and time again, and to see those heartfelt messages drives home the real reason we’re here: to either fight for those who have lost their battles like my brother Robin or great friend Jim Owens, or to help those who have very real, practical life issues that accompany and far outlive the treatment side of the cancer experience.

Why is this cancer survivorship mission so important?  My boss Phil showed me a chart yesterday that showed some good news: cancer mortality is on a solid decline and conversely 5+ year survivorship is on a great increase.  The “bad” news? All those practical issues like employment, life insurance, emotional / mental health, debt, and on and on are now top of mind in a significantly growing population.  And that’s where we step in through our various Navigation Services.

Sometimes a wall is just a wall, and other times it serves a much higher purpose.  We have a great one within the LIVESTRONG HQ, and if you’d like more info we have it HERE, or just come by sometime and check it out.  You won’t leave the same, that I assure you.  Ciao for now – Cb…