Remembering absent friends in May

May is National Cancer Research Month. May is also the birthday month of two dear people lost to blood cancer, and this seems like a good time to honor them:

Ronnie

In 2009, my close friend Ronnie died of a rare form of leukemia. Ronnie and I were college roommates (there she is left in those good old days), and she was my matron of honor. She was a hilarious and dear friend. As we got into our sixth decade, we envisioned a cable access show for middle-aged women called "Don't Get Me Started," in which we'd sit in ratty recliners wearing our bathrobes, drinking coffee, calling up elected legislators and bureaucrats, and exploding myths about anti-aging and beauty products. We never got it on the air, but we had some great times planning our "episodes." She died far too soon, and I miss her every day.

Dad and our son on his first birthday

In 2010, I lost my dad to complications from COPD. Dad, like me, had ET, though his was diagnosed later in life. While Dad didn't die from ET, he did have unpleasant side effects from chemotherapy as well as blood clots and numerous complications from blood thinners. Dad was always high energy and in charge. He loved practical jokes and arguing about politics. Although he was nearing 70 when our son was born, and was in failing health, he was the greatest grandpa to my son (there they are on his first birthday).

It was an honor to know Ronnie and Dad, and I invite you to remember those you've lost to blood cancers in the comments.

I also want to honor all the people who read this blog and follow its sister page on Facebook. Thank you for making me feel less alone with the mysteries of ET.

Be well!

Related: All in the family: My dad's history with ET

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