Welcome 2010
January 1, 2010
was just reading my January 1, 2009 post in my old blog. What struck me was my plan to distance myself from cancer. I had just completed six-months of chemotherapy in October 2008, and I was so ready to start a new beginning for 2009. In reverence to the coming new year, I marked that first day of 2009 by going to mass and running 5 laps around the track in cold weather. That was the offering.
An offering to the idea conceived in September 2007 of finishing my first marathon. It was not a bucklist (American slang; to list things you want to do before you hit the bucket or die) idea. The purpose was to contain my blood pressure problems then. Through a circuitous route that included colon cancer diagnosis followed by treatments in March 2008, I crossed the finish line on October 2009. Along the way discovered myself again (and more). I was able to:
- raise money for American Cancer Society as a Charity Runner
- gained confidence in my running abilities
- renewed old friendships, made new ones, and deepened commitments to those I love
- go home to the Philippines to give thanks to those who prayed for my recovery
- channel my renewed energy towards a productive work year
I should not complaint inspite of a relapse. I was given a chance and made the most of what was given. ‘Carpe Diem’ (Seize the Day). Make the most of what is given no matter how small or insignificant because it is a gift of life or opportunity. I have used this Latin phrase by Horace in all my business closing mails but I personalized with it with an “*” so it reads “Carpe Diem (asterisk)*”. The asterisk is to remind me that my cancer can come back. A footnote to myself. A reminder. A pause. An asterisk that I claim.
So my cancer is back and I am at the start of a new year. A new beginning. Others may have new year’s resolution, I have new year goals…modest goals; because I know 2010 will be challenging. They are;
- complete six months of chemo with no surprises
- run the 8K Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle with my family on March 21
- be the starter runner for the Lakefront 10 miler on April 24
2010 wishlist? Only one. Run the NYC Marathon on November 7, 2010. Ironically, I just received my New York Road Runner membership in the mail. I signed up to run New York last November 2009 not knowing my cancer is back and it includes the membership. I will know if I qualify March 2010. Now, wouldn’t that be interesting if I get in?
And in the end, it’s not the years in your life that counts. It’s the life in your years – Abraham Lincoln.
Happy New Year, everybody!
PS: My chemo infusion will start soon, in the meantime, I am eating my way to store strength…M&Ms included (Thanks, Stan).
Belated Happy New Year Bo…
… I hope you enjoy running that marathon.
It will be a blast, Vicki. I will know in March if I win the lottery to run NYC. Cheers.
Hi Bo, We’ve been away so I’ve just caught up with your last posts. Happy New Year to you and your family.
I like the Abraham Lincoln quote. A friend of mine uses a similar quote on her website – ‘Life is not measured by the number of breaths you take but by the number of moments that take your breath away’. And, being a marathoner, you will have had many of those!
Take care Bo. Thinking of you.
Hi Sally.
I still could not help but think that I should have been there in Madrid starting next week. I guess I just have to eat tapas and churros here in Chicago.
Cheers.
Hi Bobet! Happy New Year!
I have been reading your blogs since Ruby emailed me about it. I am saddened that your cancer is back…. just when we were rejoicing last time you were here. We share your pain as we pray that things will turn out right for you… all in God’s time.
Take care dear cousin.
Hi Lisa. Happy New Year too!
Glad to hear from you, cousin. I try to make the most of my situation and not think about the “why me” stuff. I am over that now. I have met new friends like Vicki and Sally because of cancer and renewed relationship with you and the family. All is good.
Thanks for the comment.
That would have been so much fun to meet you here! I loved your idea in the Christmas card to be the postman with the missing ACS shirt. I wonder how long it would have taken me to work out what was going on!! So unfair that you’re not here. I’ll raise a glass of vino tinto to you.
Best wishes Bo.
Hi Bo- Happy New Year! – We know this one’s going to be eventful for you.
Good to see your intentions to be on those start lines.
Best of luck with the chemo – you’re going to need those extra M&Ms.
Cheers, MTS
(hope this comment posts – I’m not sure all my do)
Not the best in ones life.,..bo…what are u doing…NYM…get out of there (big grin!) I don’t well so perhaps we could fly & race U guys? Gulp, seriously don’t fly well ;o)