One of the most difficult in things in life are those things that we have absolutely no control over. Especially for people (like me) who like to feel they are always in control of every situation. Yet once in a while life throws us a curve ball and we have to step back and realize that we are only human and as such we have human limitations. This is especially true when a family member is diagnosed with cancer.

We go through life hearing all about cancer. Given that cancer knows no boundaries, it can hit just about anywhere. When it does we try and provide love, support, encouragement and compassion for those that may be affected. However, I believe at the end of the day nothing can prepare us for the impact on us when it shows up right at our own doorstep and affects a family member directly. It is then that we feel the most helpless of all, at a time when we want to be in control most of all.

I wish everyone who faced this terrible disease had the attitude, drive and demeanor dealing with the disease that my dad has. Maybe it is that my mom, brother and I are doing all the worrying for him and he doesn’t feel that he has to. Or maybe he is just that kind of guy that takes life as it comes and believes at the end of the day that all will be as it should.

One of the things that has astounded me the most as we have gone on this short journey so far is the cost associated with cancer. With the cost of medicine being $11,000 a month, numerous hospital visits for blood transfusions, doctor visits, lab tests and everything else – one has to wonder if the reason we dont have a cure is because of the profitability that the disease itself brings. I would like to think otherwise, but one has to wonder.

One thing that I am learning most of all through this process is patience. I am reminded that I am human and I can’t control everything. At the same time the one thing I know is that I am filled with even more love and compassion than I ever knew that I had. I now know that this is one thing that I have to leave to a higher power and that I do humbly. At the end of the day things will be as they should be.

Have a great day and remember to be the reason someone smiles today.

Ron