A Phoenix Rises From the Ashes
July 5, 2008 by Karen
Please forgive my absence these past few months…
My health is improving beyond anything I ever hoped for. The cancer is retreating and I am feeling stronger than I have in over a year. My hair is back- curlier and grayer. My posture has improved, my attitude is good. Moving to be with my family has really helped my body, mind and spirit. There are a few new photos in the gallery (“What a difference a year makes”) and I promise to post more when I take them. (I no longer have a camera)
I am living in downtown Denver in a beautiful, green neighborhood – right next to the Botanical Gardens and real close to my brothers and parents. They have been incredible through this trying journey. I finally have an oncologist who is working WITH me, and we have found a treatment that is kicking cancer ass and not effecting me in the least. Seriously- no side effects and no pain!
Of course there are no guarantees, but I see myself living well into my 50s- even 60s! But one thing all this has taught me: We only have TODAY!!
I want to clear up any misunderstandings about my coming to Colorado: Zaiden and I came here on vacation- Rick was supposed to join us and at the last minute decided against making the trip. My father and brothers and over 100 family members live here. In fact, Rick and I considered moving here instead of Austin last year. While we were visiting for three weeks, my family and I discussed my health, which at the time was in decline, and my pending separation. They were concerned about my situation, as I had intended to move out and rent a room on my own upon my return. I asked Rick if he would consider moving here where we could all be surrounded by the loving support of my enormous, extended, loving family. We had only lived in Austin for 9 months. There was no job, no roots, no family. While we have all created incredible freindships and support, I felt that at this point in our lives, family was essential for all of us. He responded by hiring an attorney.
It has been a very difficult couple of months. Zaiden returned to Austin on June 1 and only last week, came for a twelve day visit. I have missed her beyond belief! We are having a wonderful time, learning and playing and growing and loving. I pray that the court will hear both sides and allow my little girl to spend time with me while I still have my health.
We are going to a hearing for the custody of our Zaiden on the 21st. I could really use all the prayers you have. I am in debt beyond belief and living off of disability. This is a scarier time than last July, if you can imagine. But I am, as always, keeping my head above water with prayer and faith and REACHING FOR THE JOY!!
Please write me and let me know how to reach you. I have lost most of my email addresses and my phone numbers and I miss you all so very much.
Please email me at kareng@reachforthejoy.org
I would love to hear from you!!!!
Love
Kalena Joy
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