17 years ago Stacey and I were married. In that ceremony we vowed to love each other in sickness and health. As I sat next to Stacey today during her second chemo treatment it occurred to me that when I said those words I had no idea what it meant. What does any 22 year old now about anything your committing to in your wedding vows? Looking back I think the vows should have been more specific.
Something like:
Do you promise to love your wife when she looses her hair?
Will you go to a wig fitting?
Can you adapt to the changes brought by surgery and chemo?
If you need to will you empty fluid drains and shave your wife's head?
I would have still said yes (she was so cute I would have done anything she wanted me to), but I think more specific vows would have made the 22 year old me think a little harder about what he/I was getting into.
If, in some weird twist of time a space, I could sit down and talk to that young me, ready to walk down the isle, I'd tell him it will all be worth it - the sickness and the health. We often take the health part for granted, I know I do. However, it is the sickness part that has taught me so much and made me love Stacey more than ever before.
Happy Anniversary / Happy Chemo Day - in sickness and health - in the good and the bad.
Joel K
I had to help my father go through chemo treatment, I have great respect for anyone who goes through that as it does take a lot of caring. Jan. 1st I should be able to have enough hair on my head to donate to locks of love again. I would be willing to donate my hair to someone who could make a wig. I am sure many at Crosspoint would gladly give up their long hair for such a cause. Wig making is an art, that I am sure many do not posses, but anyone willing and determined enough can get er done. Just a thought.
ReplyDeleteBest wishes Johnathan Templeton
Such loving words, brought tears to my eyes. My prayers are with you both everyday. Take care of each other.
ReplyDeleteI am so proud of both of you and how strong you are becoming. God really does work in mysterious ways. The sickness that I was experiencing the days surrounding your wedding is nothing compared to what your family now faces every day. Our prayers, of request and of praise, continue.
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