Prince Charming

With all this talk about what wonderful kids I have, they obviously wouldn't be here without my loving husband, John. John and I met in the restaurant business (I hired him at Coco's to be exact) and we didn't always see eye to eye. Once I got out of management and went back to waiting tables, we had a completely different relationship and starting dating on New Year's Day of 1991. Things quickly turned to love and we were soon engaged :) I married my best friend on 9-05-92 (17 years ago). John has always been by my side, and as our vows stated, "in sickness and in health" we've been learning a lot about what that truly means. Growing up I never imagined I would actually marry my prince charming, but I did. He's absolutely the best. If love alone could cure cancer, I have enough stored up from John to keep me going for years to come! He truly does love me unconditionally :) When I was first diagnosed I remembered a story that I'd like to share...

My mom died 8 years ago and afterwards I would attend this cancer support group at work (which no longer exists) but I would go to gain support as a caregiver to my mother. I remember watching this woman come in one day with her head hung low, wouldn't make eye contact and obviously had undergone a mastectomy but chose not to wear a prosthesis. She sat down and wouldn't even look at anyone. We proceeded to go around the room and introduce ourselves and speak if we wanted to. When it came to her she said that the minute her husband found out she had breast cancer he left her. She was crushed. Obviously he defined her and she felt that she had no self-worth. My heart went out to her. I couldn't believe what a horrible man he must be, and wondered if that was a normal reaction. Since then, I've seen her in the halls and she seems to be doing much better.

I shared that story with John, and just as I assumed, he looked at me and said, "I will never leave your side. I'm in this for the long haul." I love John so much, I can't believe what a wonderful man I have, I'm truly blessed. However, I wish there was more that I could do for him. Sometimes I look into his eyes and I see that he's a bit overwhelmed. He wants to make it all go away, but obviously his love alone cannot do that. I just stay positive and show him that we're going to fight this TOGETHER, because together we can move mountains. I LOVE YOU SO MUCH JOHN!!

Today I am grateful for the SUPPORT I have from my family and friends. You all know who you are, and thank you!!

Peace to you all! Love, Genie