Ten Years

Jeff and me in April 2002, 

at the Ride for the Roses finish line.

Ten years ago today, I was diagnosed with lymphoma. I was 29 years old.

Like the yellow sign says, I am a survivor. When this photo was taken, I had no idea how many times the beast would come back, although I was totally terrified of it recurring even once. I am now a four-time survivor. I'm even stronger than I could have possibly imagined at the end of that 42-mile bike ride in the Austin heat.

Jeff asked me, "How is this day for you?"

I have anticipated this day for months, but I don't have an easy answer. Ten years ago, I couldn't have possibly anticipated this day. When I think about the past decade, it's all so complicated and jumbled, yet simple and concise.

Kind of like life.