The 14th Of May.

Late last night I found out a friend's mother in law was diagnosed with breast cancer yesterday.

...Wasn't what we thought we'd hear today...She wrote.

I'm sure, it wasn't.

Instantly my mind and heart were full for her, for her husband, their family and especially her mother in law.

They are now on the journey of cancer that I wouldn't wish upon anyone.

They have entered the world of treatment options and medical terminology and many, many tears.

Her cancer is in the "very, very early stages". So that fills them each with hope for now.

I offer my prayers, support, I'll do anything they need, but I know, from my own experience, that besides prayers, there is not much more I can do right now.

The timing of her email and her mother in laws diagnosis hit me. You see, two years ago today, we found out my mom's official diagnosis. And it came attached to the word, terminal.

We knew, that short of a miracle, her cancer would kill her. And just seven months later, it did.

My dad has often joked that I have a memory of an elephant. (Apparently elephants have good memories?) Dates, times, places stick in my mind. And for weeks I have noted that May 14th was the day we found out just how sick she was. We'd known she had cancer for less than two weeks before that but were waiting to hear where it was at, how far along it was. I hoped that the 14th of May could now be marked with H and E's first Twin's game, not replacing the sad memory but giving me something positive to recall as well.

Isn't it amazing how much one's life can change in just two short, yet at times, long years?

When my mom was diagnosed, friends and family, near and far, repeatedly asked what they could do, how they could help and my one request continued from the start, until the very end of her battle. Pray for her. Write her a note, whether you've met her or not and tell her you're praying her through. Encouragement can take someone very far.

I like to think it helped.

Today, I am remembering my mom, the woman she was to not only me, but everyone around her. I'm remembering and honoring the battle she fought for seven long months.

And I am holding, Marlene, of whom, I've never even met, close in my prayers. Will you please do the same?