After reading the post about losing my friend Ginger, another friend of mine commented that ‘her long time in remission has to be a triumph of its own’. Well yes, absolutely. And it made me realize that I left out one of the most remarkable aspects of Ginger’s story. Just prior to her diagnosis, Ginger, recently divorced, had travelled to Israel and met the man who would become her second husband. Post diagnosis, she experienced almost a second lifetime, one very full of joy. When I met her she was recently widowed and embarking on yet another chapter.
Ginger’s life was inspirational/aspirational for me. And although the details differed, she provided me with a role model of what could be if I only had the courage to really go for it.
I’m not talking about cancer here, but rather my divorce. It’s not an experience that I’ve shared very much about but it was hands down one of the bravest things I’ve ever done.
When I tell people I am recently divorced they say they are sorry. Well, I’m not. It requires a lot of hope, faith and optimism to start over when you have cancer, but it was something that needed to happen and honestly, if I was strong enough to do this, I can do anything.
I gained so much from my friendship with Ginger and I shall miss her so, so much. My last email from her was a month ago and it sort of captures the essence of our friendship—a little bit of cancer, a whole lot of caring:
I saw you all over the Globe. Good article, but you are so much better in person! 🙂
Good luck to Peter!
I went in for chemo yesterday and they sent me home- too weakened. But I will try to build myself up again. It’s partially the blasted antibiotic until next Sat. Just went down on the bicycle. Have to try.
Have you tried a dating site yet?
Much love back, g
____________ ❤
life and breath: outliving lung cancer 
Linnea this seemed the safest way to contact you. I think your email account has been hacked. I have just received an email from you saying you were in the Philipines, been attacked and needing money. Maybe you should change your passwords. Beryl
PS My very best wishes to you for a happy and healthy 2016.
Beryl, you are so sweet. Indeed it was and those who did so have now opened a new acct. in my name under hotmail. When I contacted microsoft they were totally nonplussed and said anyone could open any acct. under any name that they wished and that I could contact my local police department (I actually have an address where one of these scammers requested cash be sent). Troubling.
But anyway, Happy New Year to you and it is wonderful to hear from you!
xo L