Dedication

This book is dedicated to every cancer warrior fighting their own battle because cancer sucks in every color at every age.

Husband

First and foremost, I want to thank my husband, Sammy, for everything during this ordeal. I've bragged on him throughout, but honestly, no amount of praise will convey the safety, love, and compassion he gave to me every day. He eased my fears, prayed with me, and constantly told me how well I was doing.


Mother

Encouraging my every step, my beautiful, kind, loving mother was another constant presence that deserves all the thank yous and love I have. She took every call every hour that I needed her to take, she came to visit constantly, brought books and magazines, and spent hours just talking and visiting. She never came in without a gift or treat when her smiling face and soft voice was gift enough. I have always loved her homemade chicken noodle soup and I remember stories of my grandmother and her even making their own noodles. As soon as I got home from Richmond, I requested a huge pot of that soup. I got it immediately. I am blessed with a wonderful mother has only ever shown love and compassion to all. I admire her strength and kind soul. If I end up half the woman she is, I'll be lucky. I have often said that I am a strong woman because a strong woman raised me. I am so thankful for her and her life lessons.


Son and Family

I thank my awesome son, Treyman, for making me so proud of the man, father, and person that he is. I was blessed when he was given to me. I am honored God chose me to be his mama. I'm his biggest cheerleader. Also, I thank Nancy Dudley and Leslie McBride of my son's family. They have always treated me well and cared so much for others.

Grandchildren

I dedicate my story and time to all of my readers, to Brayleigh, Berkley, and Briar in hopes that they understand how important to me they are and how much my love for them made me want to fight as hard as possible to stay with them for as long as possible. Gigi will love you forever no matter where I am. I'll always be with you and encouraging your success. Always talk to me; I may not be able to answer but I'll be listening and guiding you. Jesus loves you too and will never leave you. Y'all are so very special to all of us, and I pray to be here to see you grow and flourish.


Girlfriends

I thank my awesome group of girl friends: Angie, Tonya, Gina, Belinda, and Jennifer, Tracey, and Karen. We share more than a friendship; we are our own chosen family. Their love, concern, and support has helped me so much. I have hosted a monthly girl's group for a few years now. We get together for drinks, crafts, gossip, and just to keep up with what's happening in each other's lives. We have dinners our and celebrate birthdays and life together; life gets busy, so it's important to make time for those you care about. We all enjoy our time together so much. We play games and just laugh! Sometimes, the only therapy you need is time with your best friends. As soon as my girls heard I was sick, the prayers started. Their genuine love and concern were clear. These girls have been in my life for a very long time, and I share everything with them. Trust and loyalty mean the most to me. I have no room for the part time friends that secretly hold jealous, harsh feelings or carry tales to stir up mischief; I left high school decades ago. My time and energy are valuable, and I don't waste it. I have ended many one-sided friendships because of ignorant selfish behavior and drama. I got tired of listening to the same sad woe is me misery. I hope they are doing well but I don't invest anymore time in them. People talk a good game, but actions speak so always keep your eyes open. I used the knife stuck in my back to cut ties. I have the best group of people looking out for me that only want the best. It's refreshing and another blessing. I was able to choose this family and I love them all dearly. Before treatment even started, they rushed out to get me a backpack and filled it with everything I might need while recovering and in the hospital. Books, cards, and meals came in daily. Pillows, blankets, and pj's were given and I used every one of them! Notepads, journals, Bibles, and pens were gifted, each as special as the other. These dear friends gave me comfort and company when my life was completely out of control. I felt more grounded and safe sharing my turmoil with them. I never felt alone or pitied by any of them and that's exactly what I needed.

Sisters and Niece

I thank my fabulous sisters Kim and Melinda. I always feel protected and supported with them by my side. My sisters and my special niece Hannah were my angels on Earth, taking every measure to show their love and concern.

Neighbors

Neighbors came with food, more prayers, and well wishes. Rhonda James and Van Flora, Tim and Charlotte Jordan, Randy and Ann, and Flora and Willie Arlington all gave freely and abundantly.

I can't thank everyone enough for all of the prayers. There were prayer chains state to state going up for me from every denomination; it felt so good knowing my name kept being lifted to His ears. I appreciate those more than You will ever know. God knows what's in our hearts, but He enjoys hearing it from our lips also. I am blessed with honorable friends who take the time to think of others. I've always said you need to be a good friend to have good friends and I have some of the best friends. I appreciate all of my Facebook friends and followers also. Their encouraging words have not gone unnoticed. I feel rallied and lifted. I do not feel alone and that is a wonderful feeling.