Diagnosis . . .

The idea of mortality is one that very rarely is ever thought about by most people. Particularly on a daily basis. We live our lives, often get caught up in the small things and don’t really ever “live” or extend our selves to the full extent. With the exception of a few people who have crept into and some times out of my life, I would have to put most people in the day to day “existence” basket.

For the few who are in the exception basket, I can easily say that they are not only exceptional, but also some of the most wholesome, honest and “bestest” people that I have ever been associated with.

Enter a friend of mine, Marie. (Not her real name).

I find it very hard to sum up Marie in a few words here, so, rather than do that, I will simply list the words that come to mind that describe what happens when people are around Marie.

• happy, smile
• outgoing, funny
• live each day with gratitude
• bounce of the walls
• enrich peoples lives
• lights up the room
• makes a difference.
• just to name a few….

I think you get the picture.

Enter the Dragon. I called Marie to say hello this morning, only to be told that she has Terminal Breast Cancer. Speechless is one word that comes to mind and really just doesn’t cut it. Terminal Breast Cancer that has spread to the bone. An operation on Tuesday to remove the cancer and then treatment including kemo, radiation theorapy etc for a long time.

Out of the many people that have come across my path over the last thirty odd years, I am astounded that something like this could happen to such a good person. Unfair doesn’t even come close to describing the injustice of either God, Nature, Human Kind or what ever you want to call it.

In closing, I can say that Marie will be fine and pull through this just as she has pulled through other challenges in the past, with a changed vision of life, a different attitude and will end up encouraging, teaching, loving and surrounding herself with other people who will in turn grow and become better people.

My thoughts go out Marie, her family and those who love her very much.

Hang in there kido, the ride is about to get interesting.

More information on Breast Cancer, it’s effects, causes, prevention and peoples heart warming stories can be found here.

1. http://www.breastcanceraustralia.org/
   
2. http://www.nbcf.org.au/
3. http://www.nbcc.org.au/bestpractice/

Warm Regards,
Scott Malpass
Director
Aquafruit Media