Here's To A New Day

It was one of those oddly synchronized moments, like when old, married couples finish each other's thoughts. 

I walked into the room to see my fiancee crying and she asked "Why is all this happening to us?" The curious thing was that the same question had crossed my mind minutes earlier.

Why was I diagnosed with carcinoid cancer? Why are we forced to deal with the after-effects of surgery and treatment? When will my body return to normal?

The answer came back fast and loud. These are important questions, but they're the wrong questions. The question we should be asking ourselves is "What will we do now to make the most of every day we have together?"

Cancer will always be a part of our lives now, for better or for worse. But it's up to us to make it a long and happy life together. 

We can take care of ourselves to make sure sure we stay healthy. We have to eat the right foods: plenty of leafy greens, including kale; certain grains like quinoa; and other natural, organic foods.

We should try to have fun and play every day. At some point in our lives, we forget how wonderful and important it is to simply take time out to play, to run, to laugh. I'm looking forward to riding the Skunk Train in Fort Bragg and walking on the beaches during our honeymoon next week. For a week, at least, all we have to do is relax.

We can try to help others with cancer, perhaps even better than before. I'll be at the Relay for Life this weekend at Novato's San Jose Middle School doing what I can to raise hopes and funds for cancer research with Team Marin Patch.

I'm a little nervous, but very honored, to be speaking at the opening ceremonies. I guess I've always been a little shy, but during this fight with cancer, I've found greater strength.

I hope you all will help the American Cancer Society, or other foundations, to help find a cure for cancer and to help those affected by cancer.

Thank you.