My two cents

I know this is David's "thing", but I was asked to add my two cents, for whatever it's worth. I haven't commented on here yet, as I felt that between David and Gareth, everything has been covered. I will say though, that David thoroughly enjoys keeping up with this and everyone's comments are so appreciated. He loves receiving them.

This has been a journey that you couldn't make up. One is never prepared to handle situations like this, but we are doing the best we can. I will say though, and hence my decision to finally add to the blog, that we, without a doubt, couldn't have done this without our family, friends, neighbors, church family and even people we have never met before. The prayers alone (we've even gone international and to the Vatican itself :-) have been overwhelming. I guess you never really appreciate the love that surrounds you on a daily basis, until you are forced into having to rely on absolutely everyone for everything. Please know that I appreciate every thought, deed, gift, dinner, kind word, and on. Our children appreciate it too, even though, as kids do, they probably never voice their thanks.

Without sounding like an academy award winner, although honestly, haven't we all secretly yearned to wear a very expensive gown, walk the red carpet, and get an award for doing your job...., I do want to specifically name some people (ok, a lot). Here we go (in no particular order):

To my brother and sister in law, Gareth and Pam - no words, just the utmost love, thanks and appreciation. Gareth, you are now officially my favorite brother...okay, so you’re my only brother, that's beside the point. My parents, who have been with us, and done for us, from the minute I received that horrible phone call. To Sharon for staying with the kids and doing my laundry (trust me - there's a lot) and being the best Mom David could ask for. To Dori and Daryl for the countless trips from Waco, sleepovers, taking David for treatments and being there for all of us, to my neighbors, for cleaning up our house of trees and debris from the storm before their own (even though we weren't here), to the Durham's for being the best neighbors and friends we could ask for. My kids wouldn't know what to do without you guys. Everyone knows when they come to the house and they have a question if I'm not here, call Valarie :-). To the Schneider's, friends morphed into family, for taking our kids and loving them for a week (and spoiling them, we'll deal with that later) and for all you have done for us. Again, no words. To Maggie and Randy, for providing the best home away from home for me. To our church family/Sunday school class...you guys have been phenomenal. We could never repay you for all the yard work, delicious meals, gifts, prayers and support. Thank you. Travis, for being our rock, shoulder, and the best "other woman" a guy and girl could have (even though you broke my pot :-). To Dana (his wife) for being so kind as to lend us Travis. To Chris, the best polar nurse ever! Thanks for all the talks. Tiffany and Mike for coming down and supporting us and providing great advice during a critical time. Suzanne for showing up when you did, and Pete for letting her come. John, for always being there when I need you. Rita for all your wonderful advice, food and help when we desperately needed it. Oh, and the pedi too :-). The Councills for all your prayers and the great food basket. Bonnie for your great visits and the irreplaceable sleeping bag. Mike and Ron for showing your great support and being there during crucial times. The Mitchell's for being there for each surgery to wait with us. Kelley and her mom for the great visit, the eternal green blanket, and the huge gift of keeping my social graces in tact! The St. Wrba's for their overwhelming generosity and friendship. Rick Adams, a wonderful chef and Emma's Sunday school teacher who provided a weeks worth of food - delicious! My Service League - boy, how I'm honored and humbled to be a part of such a great group of ladies. I cried when I opened the basket. Love you. To my dad's Rotary group, for pouring out your love and support to his family. To Cherie, Kristen, Kurt, Terry, Tom and all the other MGI/Eisai guys...boy are we glad David works with a group like you! You have all gone out of your way to show your support, love and concern for us, we truly appreciate it...and feel free to call David anytime you need to chat - he'll be up for it, trust me. My family and friends in Wales and the UK for their donations, concern and prayers. Our old neighbors for the wonderful cards and kind words - very appreciated. To our kids schools for all their well wishes and help with our children. All our life long friends and family for your loving support.

I could go on, and I apologize if I have left anyone out. I'm sure I have, but this gets edited by Gareth, so he will limit me anyway. We have a long fight ahead, this is just the beginning. I ask you to stick with us. We need each and everyone of you as we continue to make this very unwanted journey. They say that everything happens for a reason, maybe this happened so we could realize just how blessed we are to have friends and family such as you all.... thank you.

Nicola