“David Foster's Kicking Kidney Cancer’s Arse”

A Small Gift From Dad

You guys might enjoy this story.  I went up to Philly to visit my best friend this weekend.  As I was leaving, she gave me a bag of maternity clothes she had borrowed and told me that she was giving back a book I'd given to here a few months ago.  Apparently there was an inscription in the book from my dad, or someone's dad.  I was flabbergasted.  As I pulled the book out of the bag and opened to the front page, I saw his signature, "Dad."   Sure enough, it was from him, dated 11-15-87.  I was nine years old and my parents had just told me they were getting a divorce.   Seeing his name, as I knew it, on that page brought back a slew of memories, both good and bad.  But at least I wasn't remembering the cancer, the empty shell, or the weeks of downward spirals.  The timing was no coincidence.  It's been over a month, and reality is starting to set in.  He's really gone, for good.  But this gift, twice given, has brought a piece of my dad back to me, a piece buried and recovered. 

Just thought you might enjoy the story.

Out of Death, Comes Life

Some of you may already know this (if you read my blog), but I thought I would let you know that I just found out that I'm pregnant.  This is Hillary, by the way, and not Sherry.  You probably guessed that, but I was just making sure.  Dad would have appreciated the irony in that, though he would have thought I was crazy for having three children under 4. 

My mom said last night, "It's a good thing we don't believe in reincarnation."  Yeah, that's just a scary thought.  I love my dad and would do anything to see him again...except that.  This will be Dad's 8th grandchild.  What a legacy!  If he were still here, I would have told him tomorrow when he called to wish me a Happy Birthday (the Big 30).  I still can't believe he won't be calling. 

I hope you are all doing well.  Please keep us informed as to your own battles.  I'm addicted to your stories as well.   Thank you again for your thoughts and prayers. 

David Immortalized

I realize it's been a while since I've had the honor of writing to you all.  I'm back in Maryland now attempting to re assimilate into my life, with my husband, my two kids, my business, my home, etc... 

A couple of things to update you on.  The first is this beautiful photo tribute to my dad, done by the folks at Gray's Sporting Journal.  There are some pictures of me in there, but all are several years old.  I think I just might have to post my favorite pic of Dad and me on my blog tonight or tomorrow. 

Secondly, I'm working on a fundraiser in Dad's memory for the American Cancer Society (and for all of you out there fighting this hideous disease).  For the time being, I'm a consultant for Pampered Chef, and in the month of May, it's "Help Whip Cancer" month where we can raise up to 30% of sales for the A.C.S.  Well, I'm taking it a step further and donating my entire commission.  My goal is submit $2000 in sales which would equal a $800 donation to cancer research and prevention.  To learn more, go to my blog and look for the column on the top right.  I told you guys I was joining this battle with you. 

Thank you!  Hillary