On Thursday, June 7th, David, Peter and I attended The One Hundred gala. Our dear friend Melinda joined our little party, and the four of us were fortunate enough to be seated at the same table as Alice (Dr. Shaw) and her husband Stan.
It was an amazing as well as highly emotional evening; a night not only to honor one hundred individuals and organizations, but also an important fundraiser for the Cancer Center at Massachusetts General Hospital.
Actor Matt Damon kicked off the program, just one of several charming and well spoken presenters to take the podium. As the guests enjoyed dinner, large screens displayed a rotating gallery of the honorees. Peppered amongst the presentations were special tributes to a handful of those nominated, including Dr. Shaw.
I was given the privilege of reading a prepared narration for this sequence, which had been recorded several weeks earlier. In addition, photographs of Dr. Shaw and myself in clinic were edited together with earlier images from my journey. Diagnosis, the summer I almost lost hope, and the moment hope rushed back in. And, of course, the integral role Alice (Dr. Shaw) has played throughout: in essence a very public love letter to Alice from one very gratified patient. I was smiling hard through the tears.
Of course, ours was only one of a hundred inspirational stories that evening. Cancer may be a formidable foe, but the human spirit remains indomitable and everyday heroes abound. In fact, if you know someone who is trying to make a difference in the war against cancer and you would like to have them recognized, nominations are already open for next year.
life and breath: outliving lung cancer 
Wow! What a great event!
Craig, it is really an amazing evening. Might even pony up for a ticket next year.
Linnea
Congratulations Linnea! on choosing to make a real difference ..you are a role model for humanity..one person CAN truly make a difference…THANK-YOU
Aw Gwen…thank you!
Linnea
You inspire such hope — and pride, too. And you know I am a huge fan of Alice (Dr. Shaw). And must note: Another great picture of you!
xoxoCristina
Thanks Miss Cris. I hope you get to meet Alice someday. As for the pic, if you are talking about the super hero pose, I did not assume that position of my own volition. I was coached, and I like to think I was a good sport.
Love, L
Thanks for making a difference. You are an amazing woman.
Cheryl
Cheryl, thank you!!
Linnea
Congratulations on being honoured as one of the 100. Sounds like it was a fabulous and hope-inspiring event.
Thanks, it really is an inspiring evening. Good to see some of the troops gathered!!
Linnea
Linnea, what an incredible honor! I can’t think of a more deserving person. I love your quote about lung cancer not having you. You never fail to amaze me, and I feel quite fortunate to have you in my life~ xxoo
Lorraine, I am most fortunate to have you–a constant source of inspiration. Tenacity personified!
Linnea
Hi Linnea,
I am so very happy for you. You truly deserve it.
Thanks
Priya
Priya, thank you. Your kind words and continuing support mean much.
Linnea
Hi Linnea,
I just found your website a couple of weeks ago. My father was just diagnosed Stage IV in April. I’m a sea of discouraging “statistics” and information in the web regarding Stage IV lung cancer, your story and blog are like a beacon of hope!!
Thank you for putting yourself out there. Although my Dad’s story may be vastly different from yours, you have given me a fresh view of this war he is called to fight. I am grateful for your perspective. You are inspiring, not only in your tenacity, but in your openness, too. Your spirit and willingness to help be a pioneer leading the way in the treatment of these mutations are awesome!
I have read all of your previous posts and will check on you often. I will be pulling for you down here in Louisiana!!
Karin
Looks like a fabulous evening that was well deserved! What a wonderful tribute to you and Alice. What a team you make!