Mother's Day Weekend in Utah

 

MONDAY, MAY 10, 2010

Mother's Day Weekend In Utah

WOW, it's been a while since I've blogged, and our internet has not allowed me to. So here is the update: Eric, Haleigh, and I left on Friday after my radiation appointment to visit Kaitlyn and Brian in Utah. Their house is so cute and totally reflects her personality. On Saturday morning, we went to the Gateway Mall in Salt Lake City, where a VILLAIN walk started and ended.

 The entire Wright family, including spouses, walked, except one of Brian's sisters, Tori. Jamie Patterson, Kelsie Webster, Emily Brinton, and Willi Nixon all walked with us. Over 20,000 people were walking/running. I am not quite up to running yet, but I was proud of myself for being able to walk the entire 5k. 

It was an overwhelming sight to see the road and witness a sea of white and pink VILLAIN shirts. I loved catching up with all of the girls' friends, you know, getting the scoop on who's dating who and all, they are all so cute, and I love them for supporting such a great cause. I also enjoyed talking with Brian's family; they are such a great family, always supportive and kind. 

When all the survivors (wearing PINK) paraded together, they stood on the steps for a tribute and picture. It was amazing to look around and see pink shirts surrounding me, knowing each of these women has a story; they each are part of this world I live in. They understand, and the tears are genuine as they run down our cheeks.

I was searching the crowd for Eric. Our eyes connected. The world that he lives in as a caregiver is a different world than even I understand. Our friends surrounding him could understand his tears. I looked out in the crowd; many were crying. They were shedding tears for someone they know who has survived or lost their lives to the VILLAIN but also for themselves. 

Caregivers desperately stand by watching their loved ones go through the pain they cannot fix. It hit me that Eric is a fixer, and he wants me to be happy and always has tried to protect me and fix what is wrong .... this VILLAIN he could not fix, how hard that must be on him.

We had a great couple of days with Kaitlyn, Brian, and his family. We got on a flight early Sunday morning to talk to Blake on Mother's Day. It was nice to hear his voice and know he is doing well and enjoying his mission. I think he was happy to talk to us too. The language is really coming along for him, and he likes his companion a lot. I told him not to worry about me; I am doing so good, and the Lord is blessing us because of his service. This was such a good weekend for me. Thank you to all my children who make me want to be a better person, who constantly surprise me with their strength and unconditional love. I Love You!!!!