This Year

I’m 38 years old. So my New Year’s Eve celebrations are very limited- much more now that I am a professional cancer-haver. I’m already wondering if I can make it to midnight since I’m an old man.

But since it is the end of the year I did want to share my gratitude for everyone’s support. Family- my kids bring me joy (and keep me on my toes) and occasionally make me forget about cancer. Rachel has been an amazing mother- picking up even more responsibility for the kids plus the house and me in my diminished capacity. My parents have been there for rides, company, support and anything and everything else we need. My siblings the same- whether it’s help with the kids, checking in on me, and being there in case we need them. My extended family too- thank you for always reaching out and being a phone call away for anything we need. My friends, checking in and making sure I’m alright both mentally and physically and providing much needed laughs. Everyone I work with who has reached out and picked up slack for me. My group therapy through Gilda’s and the Associate Board members for understanding this battle and being there for me as well. Friends of family/friends and random internet strangers who have expressed support and helped me know that I’m not alone. New connections that understand this fight and journey and the ups and (mainly) downs. They’ve really been key in getting me through this year with compassion and love.

Anyone I may have forgotten- don’t take it personally, blame it on cancer brain. Again, the old saying is when you get cancer, people either step up or step out. I have to say I have been very lucky to have only people step up for me throughout this. At times my brain runs around like a flying squirrel trapped inside a cabin. But the support has helped me move mental mountains this year and it really truly means the world to me. Selfless care all around.

So I can’t end a post on a serious and sentimental note. So as many people love to do at the end of the year, here’s a (not completely serious) top ten list for 2023 of things that have happened:

10. Successfully got cancer again. Back to back cancer champ.

9. Lived out my dream of racing in Florida. See Disneyworld scooters.

8. I was able to help keep the mental health professional industry alive single-handedly.

7. Hundreds of skin pokes- infusions, blood draws, biopsies, IVs and more.

6. Thousands of cancer jokes (I’m not saying they were all good).

5. 45 pounds lost this year so far #thankscancer

4. 147,238 hours spent extremely exhausted.

3. 873 people in the cancer center unmasked.

2. 842,682 times I have recited my name and date of birth.

Most importantly:

1. Over $11,000 raised for Gilda’s Club this year! (Thank you family, friends, donors, businesses and everyone else who has supported)

I truly appreciate all of you! Happy New Year!

Joe