More from a Mentor

In the Hero's Journey the role of the mentor cannot be understated. These characters provide encouragement, strength, guidance and inspiration. I received a card in yesterday's mail from Kathy E, a person I consider to be one of my personal mentors; her notes are always inspiring and positive.

Kathy's latest card included a photo of herself and her friend Barb. Unfortunately I don't have a scanner so I can't share it. These incredible women took part in the Digby Relay for Life in 2007. I know I've mentioned Kathy is a cancer survivor. Her friend is also, and Kathy provided a few details I hope she doesn't mind me sharing. As I said these women serve as an incredible inspiration for anyone facing adversity.

In 1979 Kathy was diagnosed with Stage 2 cervical cancer at the age of 36. She had a radical hysterectomy and lymph nodes removed. The surgery was so successful she didn't need any other treatment. Twenty years later, in 1999 she was diagnosed with early stage colon cancer. Again, following a successful surgery she was declared cancer-free without any other treatment required.

Kathy's friend Barb A has to be a woman of incredible strength. She has survived not only breast cancer, but also lung cancer, thyroid cancer, colorectal cancer and for the past six years she has been living with and fighting non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. It takes real strength and courage to continue an ongoing battle like that.

Throughout my journey I have found inspiration and hope in many places, and that support as well as the energy and prayers continue to provide a strong foundation from which to battle this disease. So far I'm still feeling good after round five. I took my Celebrex this morning and hope it heads off any ill effects before they occur. I want to be energized by next weekend as I'm planning on take part in the Lower Sackville Relay for Life with one of the two teams entered from my workplace.