The Emporia Gazette

February 14, 2012

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I wish to try to express myself in words, but they are hard to come by. Life is full of experiences and we learn from these experiences, both good and bad. Sometimes a single event can change your whole perspective on life.

Diane and I have endured such an event in recent weeks. As parents of four grown children, 13 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, we were living a pretty comfortable lifestyle, thinking about financial goals and retirement. We considered possibly increased future travel. The vision of true financial independence seemed that it might become reality within a few short months.

We anticipated a more laid-back lifestyle with opportunities to enjoy more time with family, nature and mostly each other. This change would coincide with our 50th wedding anniversary in 2011.

Then, on Jan. 29, Diane was diagnosed with cancer after a difficult surgery. Now, we don’t know what the future holds for us, except that chemotherapy and radiation treatments are prescribed. When, how extensively or how long, we know not. What we do know is that Heavenly Father is in control.

We have learned a lot about life and people in the past few weeks. One thing we have learned is that life is uncertain. Another thing is that people are good, sincere and empathetic. Many friends have reached out, expressed their sympathy, and offered service. These are the thoughts that keep us going and we appreciate them very much.

Many have said, with great sincerity, “If there is anything I can do, let me know.”

For us, directly, our needs are small right now. Our children are carrying us through the day-to-day challenges. We do ask that you remain our friends so we can continue to draw on your strength. Also, we accept gratefully any and all prayers because it is really up to Him who has given us life in the first place. We care not what religion you prefer, we just solicit your faith and prayers.

Diane and I have talked a lot about this statement, “If there is anything I can do, let me know” and we have decided to make a few suggestions. Here is what we thought about.

We all know people who are hurting and need help in one way or another — the discouraged, disabled, financially hurting and a number of other things that make life unpleasant — we’d suggest that you find someone you can literally help and make it a goal to make life more pleasant for this person or family. Use your imagination and ask, “How can I help this situation be better?” Sometimes it may take money, a service, your time or sometimes people just need a friend who cares.

Specifically, if you want to bring in food for us, take it to someone who needs it. Diane’s diet is pretty restricted now, but others could definitely benefit from an extra pot of soup.

If you want to sent an uplifting note, please still do so and send an extra one to someone else.

You have been so good about honoring Diane’s doctors’ instructions to rest and limit personal visits. Since this is germ-spreading season, such precautions are still warranted for Diane and others who are ill, but someone might love a phone call, or a brief visit. There are just some immediate suggestions.

On this subject of service and cancer, let me suggest one other thing. Some of you are aware of the Pink Tractor that is sponsored by the Flint Hills Antique Power Association. We have promoted that mascot as a symbol for cancer awareness, with some success. Now, partially as a result of our heightened awareness during the past few weeks, we’d like to extend “Pink Tractor’s” influence by suggesting that it could be a symbol for “pulling together” to eradicate cancer and promote service in our community.

If there is an event within a 50-mile radius of Emporia where the Pink Tractor can be displayed, please let us know. We will use it in parades, displays, rallies or anything that will give it and its message exposure. In the past it has been displayed in various settings in this area including in front of the Civic Auditorium for the June Bug Cancer Drive.

Pink Tractor has a small donation box attached to it for those who wish to donate money. All of that is used locally to further the fight against cancer. Cancer research has come a long way since my mother died 30-plus years ago, but much needs to be done.

So, when you see the Pink Tractor, ask yourself, “What can I do today to help someone else, no matter how small the act?”

And we do continue to accept all prayers. Thank you for being such dear, caring friends.