TO DONNA M., DOWN IN FLORIDA

If a tree falls in the forest, and we are not there to witness it, does it make a sound?
What if a voice calls out from the wilderness that is cancer? Can we hear that?

I am often curious about my followers. Today, I read the tweets of one. Donna M., down in Florida, puts out little snippets of her life. What can I tell about her from these brief messages to the world? What can I know about her?

I know she is struggling with pain, with chemotherapy. I know it's been tough for her. But I also know she is filled with a strong spirit. She's trying to get through this battle without losing herself. She's trying hard to rise above all those obstacles that cancer puts in her way.

I know there are days it's impossible for her to get out of bed. And yet, she soldiers on. She gives it her best shot. Some days, she's chilled to the bone and it's hard to feel warm. This has been a tough winter for the South. Some days, she's stuck in the waiting room at the doctor's office for hours. We can all certainly relate to that, can't we? I know Donna is a sports fan, keen on football and basketball (Miami Heat). I also know she treasures the good days when she can get outside and enjoy it.

In some ways, Donna M.'s tweets are a real learning tool. What role does spirit play in cancer treatment? So clearly, she is reaching out to the great, big universe, seeking peace, comfort, and kindness. In the midst of her own ordeal, she even offers a prayer for the people of Egypt.

Donna, I will probably never meet you, but thank you for reminding me of the real face of cancer. It's not glamorous or glorious, this battle you fight. The days are not easy or kind. I will think of you from now on because I heard your voice cross the miles. You are real. You exist. And now other people know about you. We will all think of you, Donna M. in Florida. We will keep you in our prayers and wish you the best. When you face those dark nights and wonder how you can make it to the dawn, know this. The cancer community is there for you. Across the world, there are people who understand your struggle and we root for you, just like you root for the Miami Heat. Hang in there. Hold onto the good days, the good friends, the good memories. Wishing you blue skies, nothing but blue skies.