This is a story about a regular guy, with some irregular news.
This is a story about finding the motivation to do what you were designed to do.
This is my cancer survival story.
A Different Class
“See you later mom. Love you!” I had an Electronics Circuits class to be at in an hour, with thirty-five miles of morning traffic to wade through before getting to the University of Houston. No easy feat, I assure you.
“Hold on, Richard.” My mom, ever so good at stopping me in my tracks, pulled me back in with motherly love. “Did you schedule an appointment with the dermatologist, yet?”
“Uhhh… I really gotta’ go now. I’m late!” The beads of sweat on my forehead are giving it away aren’t they?
“That’s a no. Please, sweety, I’m concerned about that bump on your shoulder. It’s been bugging me for too long. It’s been put off for too long and it’s past time to get it checked out. Just get a check-up – that’s all.”
“Speaking of bugging…”
“Son. Please. Make an appointment soon.” Mom’s don’t make puppy-dog looks. But you know that one that’s pretty dang close? It just grabs your heart and gives it a big hug. How am I supposed to say no to that?
“Alright. Tomorrow. I’ll do it.” And with that, I left her house with a heavy sigh.
Tonya Winders says
Thank you for sharing your story! I, too, am a nine-year survivor of a rare form of cancer in my early 30’s. I see cancer as a gift! It gave me the clarity of purpose and the dogged determination to follow God’s will for my life. I live every moment with a greater sense of presence and no longer take life for granted. We are never guaranteed tomorrow—even without cancer—–live life to the fullest with no regrets!
Richard N. Stephenson says
Amen Tonya! I was headed down the wrong path and got put back in a good place. Thank God! People have a hard time understanding why I care little for TV, trends, sports, and other similar things… but I just say, “Hey – I’m confident I was given a second chance to do something more than what I’ve been doing all my life.” It isn’t until we almost lose something that we begin to realize how important it really is to us.
Thank you for visiting and your comment, Tonya!