People who participate in the DPHA annual conferences, especially
first time attendees, often comment on the "sense of family" that
pervades the Association. That sense of family has never been more apparent to
me than during this past year. Before proceeding on to 2019, I thought
it imperative I thank you all for your support during 2018.
As many of you know by now, I was diagnosed with stage 2A cancer in
March. This year has been both a physical and mental
challenge. There were many times when going
through treatment (chemotherapy followed by radiation) over the past 8
months that my spirits flagged. My family (headed by my wonderful wife,
Michele) was there for me every step of the way. Their love and support
was the steady rock I clung to every day.
But my DPHA family was always there for me too, and I also cannot
begin to express my gratitude to all of you for your love and support.
Whether it was a phone call, email or text message, it seemed
that someone was contacting me almost every day - asking how I was
doing, seeing if there was anything they could do for me or just trying
to make sure I kept my spirits up. It is impossible to tell you how much
this helped. Until you have gone through something like this, you can't
imagine how much of a difference just hearing from someone can make.
Thankfully, the follow-up tests have been very good, and although I
am not officially "out of the woods" yet, the prognosis is very, very
positive - an expected complete recovery.
So thank you, thank you, thank you to my DPHA family for your love
and support this year. May you all have a wonderful and safe New Years
holiday, and a prosperous 2019!
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