Dear Dr. Rimmer,

The past thirteen months have been both difficult and wonderful.  You told me many very hard things but your kindness and gentleness made it possible for me to accept and deal with the cancer and treatment.  You have been there to encourage me every step of the way.  You made me face reality in October when I was trying to deny a new lump.  For all these things and more, you have my gratitude.

You told me that Stage 3 was just a number and that I could give up or not worry about it.  I have chosen to ignore the number as much as possible and live as though it was Stage 1.  I have told others that their numbers in cancer or end-stage renal failure refer to studies concerning thousands of people and don’t necessarily have anything to do with them, as some people defy the statistics.

Your office stag and most of the caregivers that I met have been wonderful.  Going for treatment, tests, and surgery has allowed me to meet many people who genuinely care about the patients.  It helps a lot when you are going through such a painful time.

Thank you for your support, encouragement, and kindness.

Merry Christmas, Love,
H