Lydia Doty’s house was filled with message professionals, hair stylists, make up artists, models, all of whom lived or are living through the cancer experience, and organizers from “Hope Lives” sharing Quiches made by Cathie or food donated by The Rustic Oven, wearing clothes from various boutique clothing stores in Fort Collins and Loveland. Stories floated through the air, the same and yet uniquely different. Compassionate eyes met your gaze and those who have experienced the “deadly fatigue” knew exactly what you meant. This was a celebration of life of extraordinary degree – a reaffirming that “Hope Lives!” The “photoshoot” was done to music with a cheering squad of models and of course, Lydia.
I had been told to “not overdo!” I don’t think I have ever really understood that concept. However, when I returned home about 4 o’clock from this event that started with hair styling at C&S Workshop (early in the morning), Thanks so much, Shauna, I collapsed. The “aches” returned with vengence. I took medications but… Several hours later I began to get relief.
This is a time of suffering. I know it will end and that I am protecting my body from reoccurance of my high risky tumor.
Thanks, Annette, for a beautiful walk. We walked at a slow pace covering about the same distance as I did Monday and Tuesday. The joy of being in the fresh mountain air surrounded by the expansive vistas of the mountains nourishes the body and the soul.
Dear Joan,
I have a dear friend who survived breast cancer. She is a tremendously accomplished, disciplined woman who cares for her career and her family with grace and creativity. Shortly after she was diagnosed, she adoped a motto: “When you’re tired, retire!”
Being a writer and poet, the term “retire” held multiple meanings for her, among them: the image of putting new tires on an old, trusty vehicle. It signified trying new ways of treading old paths, and even exploring new paths.
But it also meant that she took *lots* of naps.
“When you’re tired: re-tire.” This motto served her well.
Love,
Toni
Joan,
I can’t thank you enough for being a part of our big day on Wednesday. I know it was a challenging and yet also empowering day for so many of our wonderful, brave, strong and BEAUTIFUL survivors. You looked so amazing (as did everyone) and I cannot wait until the magazine comes out. Once again, we are so blessed to have you in our fold. We would never wish this rotten disease on anyone–but we are so glad when those who are battling it find us so that we can offer our hearts and hands (and yes–quiche) to them.
Take care of yourself. Rest. Call us if you need anything.