You'll never walk alone...

And so, the time quickly came for the Liver Life Walk.  Armed with a new attitude, and feeling pretty well, I prepared myself to give it my all.  With the help of many generous friends and family members, we were able to raise a nice sum for the Liver Foundation.  And on the day of the walk, I had several people come out with me to support the effort.  It was their inspiration that allowed me to do my best to walk a full lap of the entire course.

It was a somewhat cool day, which certainly helped, but the sun was shining and I was surrounded by family and friends.  As we walked the course, I did what I could to keep up, but as is typically the case, I soon fell behind the pack.  But that wasn't going to deter me -- I was going to finish that course one way or another!

Well, with my kids around me, I did finish the course...  and went to sit down as I really thought I just may pass out!  But sitting for a while while everyone went back for a second lap helped, and soon I was feeling just a bit stronger...  And certainly began to feel more and more proud of the accomplishment.  I realized quite acutely, however, that there was no way that I could have done it without them.  And that is yet another debt that I realize that I may never be able to fully repay...  But I at least hope to get back on my feet soon so that I can try!

Run, Forrest, Run!

One of the hidden benefits to having a condition like mine is that you soon learn a lot about the people around you.  For the most part, every person that hears the news, will share their concern... and then run.  But it isn't exactly like you might think.

Some folks, whether they are afraid to confront their own mortality by staying by your side, or whether it is for some other reason, will run away.  Some will disappear fast, and others will just slowly let themselves fade from your daily existence.  They will say the right things, and send their best wishes, but that is about all you will ever hear from them.  No more offers of getting together for lunch, or an evening out, or a round of golf.  Sooner or later, they don't even exist in your world.

On the other hand, other people, when learning about the condition, will also run... directly towards you.  When you are sick, they will make the phone call or send the email to check up on you.  They will watch out for your family when you are unable to.  But most importantly, they are simply there for you -- whatever you may need.  And even if you end up never having to rely on them, it does you a wealth of good just knowing that they are there. 

When you're in my condition, it can become very isolating.  With nothing to really do but watch SportsCenter and watch the clock tick away the hours while you are fighting to stay awake, it is extremely easy to give in to those feelings, causing depression and perhaps allowing the disease to progress more freely.  But instead of feeling let down by those who ran away, you need to focus on all of those who ran towards you -- Because you now know who your friends really are.  As far as the others -- Let them go.  They aren't worth your time.