As I sit down to share this profoundly personal chapter of our lives I’m reminded of the strength and resilience that define family. Although we are a blended family with our unique dynamics and shared experiences, the foundation of love and support remains unwavering.
After 20 years of marriage, I found myself single again and ready to tackle the world. When I remarried in 2022, three of our four collective children were already adults, leaving just one son still at home with us. So, as I reflect on this journey, let me set the stage: picture me, the stalwart rock for my two biological sons, navigating the tumultuous seas of single parenthood with what I aimed to be: determination and grace. Okay, okay, if I’m being honest, grace might not have been my forte at all times, but hey, I gave it my best shot.
With a history of various types of cancer casting a shadow over our family’s past, the news of my own diagnosis brought with it a heavy burden of uncertainty and fear. In that moment, a couple of initial thoughts were– I needed to get my financial affairs in order, and I worried deeply about how my sons would handle this news. Since the separation from their dad, they haven’t seen him often, and their grandparents, who are like second parents to them, have incurable health issues. Moreover, my oldest son battled a brain tumor back in 2022. Specifically, I worried about my youngest son, who is the only person in my biological family who has not had a personal experience with cancer. I really feared how he would process this information and whether he would struggle to cope with the news.
Yet, amidst these concerns, I also recognized the profound influence a parent’s demeanor can have on their children’s ability to navigate difficult times. Kids follow the lead that their parents set. If we show strength, they draw strength from us. With the unwavering support of my loving husband Bill by my side, I embarked on the daunting task of sharing my diagnosis with two sons.
I approached it with careful consideration, recognizing their unique personalities and circumstances. With one son away at school and the other still living at home, I knew that separate conversations were necessary to ensure they both received the news in a way that respected their individual needs. For my son at school, I opted for a heartfelt phone call, allowing us to connect despite the miles between us. With my son at home, I chose a quiet moment where we could sit face-to-face, allowing him to process the news in the comfort of our familiar surroundings. By tailoring my approach to each of their personalities and situations, I hoped to provide them with the support they needed as we embarked on this journey together.
In the days and weeks that followed, I witnessed the remarkable strength and resilience of our family. My sons, buoyed by my husband’s unwavering support and love, became my pillars of strength, offering comfort and encouragement when I needed it most. But it wasn’t just my immediate family who stepped up to the plate. I was overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from friends, colleagues, and even acquaintances. From heartfelt messages and thoughtful gestures to practical help with meals and appointments, their kindness and generosity lifted my spirits and reminded me that I was not alone in this fight. It’s said that in times of adversity, you discover who your true friends are, and I am forever grateful for the unwavering love and support that surrounded me during this challenging time.
I am endlessly grateful to my husband for being a shining example of what it means to be a supportive husband and a role model for all of our children. His unwavering love and strength shown to me during this time have been a source of comfort and inspiration throughout this journey. Together, I hope is that we have shown our children that love knows no bounds and that when faced with adversity, family is our greatest source of strength.
To all the families navigating similar challenges, know that you are not alone. We are stronger and united in our fight for a brighter tomorrow. And to my family, friends, and beloved husband, Bill, thank you for being the light that has guided me through some of my darkest days. With you by my side, I know we can overcome anything life throws our way.
