18 December 2010

Repeat the Sounding Joy



Hello, friends. I know I said I wouldn't be blogging anymore, but it turns out I just can't help myself. I'm feeling the need to connect in as many ways as I can.

This past year has been a doozy. A series of tests revealed a malignant, early-stage sarcoma in my right shoulder area, which required surgery. The surgery involved the severing of my C5 and C6 nerves, which led to a delicate nerve graft, for which I am still engaging in intensive physical therapy. I endured the extraction of my wisdom teeth, three months of radiation, and four months of chemo. And worst of all, my beloved grandfather passed away.

But all this has not diminished my sense of hopefulness. Because, all things considered, I'm still probably luckier than 99% of people in this world. I have a wonderful husband and amazing family and friends. I have a roof over my head in a vibrant, unique city. I get to make a living doing what I love. And I seem to be keeping all things cancerous at bay. I have a pretty sweet deal, people.

Big thanks to all those who supported me over the past year; I had no idea so much generosity and love was possible. You really outdid yourselves.

And for all this, I look forward to 2011 with joy.


10 comments:

  1. Thinking of you, Kara, and sending you love and joy this holiday season. I'm so glad you're on the mend, and I'm so sorry to hear of this news. I had no idea...I'm so glad you're going to keep blogging. You have a great many fans and friends who love you! Wishing you a beautiful and hopeful 2011! I love that picture of that sparkling bird on your tree.

    Love
    Kerry

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  2. Wow! Somehow I missed hearing about your annus horribilis. I'm glad to hear you are on the mend and finding hope and joy.

    Sending more hope and joy your way.

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  3. Thanks to you both! It's easy to find hope and joy with so many great friends on my side! xoxo

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  4. I'm sending you much love and peace, and am grateful you are recovering so well. Here's to a much better 2011!

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  5. love you Kara. Looking forward to seeing you in 2011. xoxooxoxoox cecil

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  6. Thanks so much, Jen!

    And Cecil: Same here! Looking forward to sharing a champagne toast (or three) with you. xoxo

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  7. I can't wait to get together!
    2011 is going to be a wonderful new shiny year!

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  8. The thing about no-g, terrible, simply awful years is that they make the ones that follow look really good by comparison. i'm so grateful to hear that your recovery is progressing so well. I wish you a wonderfully happy and healthy 2011.

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  9. I'm just a facebook friend, but had to write here to say boy oh boy, what a year. I won't talk about your annus, like wordsrmylife, because that's just private. But I'll be sending all good thoughts your way as you leave this year behind and step into the promise of 2011.

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  10. Laura: Definitely!

    Judy: Thanks so much! I hope our paths cross one day — I've heard so many wonderful things about you. : )

    Audrey: Bless you for leaving my "annus" out of this! And thanks for your kind words.

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