Like everyone, my character has been formed by my life experiences. I have had my share of trials, but I can honestly say that, looking back on them, I am thankful for what I learned through each one.

In May, 2012 my son called after visiting the doctor. He announced that the doctor suspected cancer and a biopsy was scheduled for Friday. I told him I’d be there. I was concerned, but over the years I came to expect trauma from Joe. He was an outdoorsman, a mountain man who loved snowboarding, kayaking, river rafting, hunting, fishing – and surfing whenever he would visit the beach. He had been banged up through so many adventures, and had a previous scare that came back benign. He was healthy and strong so I was confident he’d get through this one, even if the tests proved it to be cancer.

The surgeon met us…