Ever seen Ray Lewis of the Baltimore Ravens before a game?? The guy is a machine, a symbol of toughness in the NFL. Decades after his retirement, people won't remember how many sacks or tackles he collected over his hall of fame career. People will however remember him for what he stood for. Video clips of this soldier in the middle of his peers, motivating, strengthening, and preparing for the task at hand. He, however, happens to be a very well-spoken and caring gentleman. It is almost impossible to dislike this warrior of the gridiron. When I got out of surgery yesterday morning, I made it appoint to be a leader on this floor. There are approximately 25 other cancer patients, all of which have tales unlike any other. We all share a common struggle that binds us. I spent about two hours walking the hallways last night, and as I walked and peeked into a room or two, I saw a teenager, Steven, laying in bed while his mom was draping a blanket over him. It was a genuine moment that I won't ever forget. This morning I was walking the floor, looked into Mark's room, a patient 2 doors down, in his late 40's of early 50's and just wanted to say hello. He asked me if I was walking the floor, "yes I am, sir!" I replied. As I said that, he literally pushed aside the nursing student and said, "wait up Eddie." I began to think to myself, we can make each other stronger. Mark and Jackyln, a mother of two, are both diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia. Jacklyn absolutely hates to be referred to as "Jacky." I want to remember every moment in this place. This is my life, I am choosing to live it.
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