I lost a cancer friend this week.
Diana lived in Mount Pleasant and walked with Jennifer (Seketta's cousin). Over the years, their walks and our front porches, we hi, helloed. When Diana learned of my diagnosis, she started leaving cards, flowers, notes, words of encouragement on our front porch.
In December, she was diagnosed with esophageal cancer. I learned of it when I bumped into her at an appointment with Hans in February. She looked fabulous in her asymmetrical wig, but I was crushed to see her there. Diana recognized me first (us in two wigs, looking unlike we had weeks before) and I heard her difficult story and met her husband, Doug.
A few weeks ago, I saw Diana and Doug walking up Park. I ran out to catch them and say hello. Diana was serene about her future. Maybe more treatment, maybe six months.
I heard the news of her death Wednesday on my way to the results of my brain MRI. It would be impossible to overstate how much that has rattled me. Is that how it happens? It's going fine and then it isn't? You are walking the neighborhood and fighting cancer and then you are not?
My brain MRI was clear but the atta girl seemed a little less significant. Or more significant. I don't know which. I just wanted to get out of the appointment and away from it all.
I took a card over to Doug, met his brother and talked for a bit. Cried. Shook my head in disbelief. Promised to check in after everyone else stopped coming by.
I've been in a bit of a fog since.
I did make one bold move this week. #annielenox. Jim hates it and he is not all wrong. It isn't good looking. But it's been ages since I've been cute. And it's not brown, so I'm happy. And thank you, Hans, for that.
May God bless Diana and keep her close and comfort her family in their sorrow.
