Sunday, December 13, 2009

Amazing support from amazing people...


In addition to Steve, my boys, two sisters, parents and family, I am even further humbled to see what a wonderful community of friends we have. So many of you have just been amazing in reaching out to see how we're doing, sending books that have helped me keep a grip on things, bringing a meal over when I was just too sick from chemo to cook for my boys, sending lovely scarves for my bald head, cozy socks, mindless magazines and movies to help pass the time...

My long-time gal pals from high school (Ali, Brooke, Beth, Kathryn, Amy, Staci, Molly, Dana, Michelle, Keri) have been relentless in their support from all corners of the country, and the moms in my playgroup (above) have only known me since Evan was born but have just been there getting me through each day. My firm GovPartner has been amazing, and so many of you that I met through FWClass have also been incredibly generous and supportive: Laura at VPG, Liz Dang, my SDBargainMama Stacy... my apologies now because there are just too many to list and there really is a thing called "chemo brain" where I swear my brain cells are most affected by these strong drugs...)

And do you remember way back in the Fall of 2007 I sent out an email asking our friends to "Help find a bone marrow match for Lisa"?

As always you all responded then with generous hearts and showed up at a bone marrow drive here in San Diego to sign up and become part of the registry -- a national registry that ultimately DID find a match for Lisa!

Well, I kept getting emails asking "How is Lisa doing?" and am so happy to report that she is doing great! In fact, Lisa has been a tremendous support for me now, especially since I know the words come from another mom who has been in the same situation....

One message in particular that Lisa sent me sticks with me every single day - as a nurse at Sloan once said to her: "A positive mental attitude won't heal you, but a bad mental attitude will kill you."

Yes scary thoughts come all the time, but thanks to the support from so many of you I have been able to keep a positive attitude and know that I too will make it past this difficult time.

Please be sure to read about the Pegasus Rising Project, which has has provided me support from four-legged friends, and I will post more pics of these new members of my support team soon :)

3 comments:

Olive Tree said...

Hi, it's a very great blog.
I could tell how much efforts you've taken on it.
Keep doing!

Mish said...

Gaby- we had no idea. We love you so much and know that you are strong and will overcome this. The passion and grace you bring to everything else you do will make this tough time but a distant memory...

Anonymous said...

Gaby, this is the first I've heard of your diagnosis - you are now on my daily prayer list! Hang in there strong Mama, God uses all things for good! Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help - even if it's just helping with your boy's birthdays!
Love, Rachel (from PartyPax)