Life is a bit like a card game!

EVE BURTON's ANNUAL THANKSGIVING COLUMN

By Eve Burton

posted 11/23/05
I was diagnosed with breast cancer May 1992. Many thoughts came to mind after receiving that news, and the one that sticks out in my mind the most after all these year is: Life is like a playing card and you have to play the card you've been dealt. So make the best of it by ...

Take a good look at the cards you have in your hand (the good and the not so good ones!)
Think about your options (ask good questions and do your own research).
Make good decisions about how to play your hand (based upon the information you have received).
And, take charge!

As each year comes and goes, we all seem to hear about more cases of cancer - more and different kinds of cancers - that strike our loved ones and friends. And, what can we do? We feel very sad, hurt, and most often very helpless.

But, we still need to … be "thankful" that we've had good times shared with our family and friends; "pray" that the road ahead for our cancer patients will be successful and/or eased of pain and suffering; "thankful" that we have the support and caring of our community - everyone who is doing what they can in their own way to help others.

And, please remember:

To have your annual physical and now's the time! I have a little "post-it-note" reminder that I keep on my calendar each year for January (my birthday month) to schedule my annual physical appointment in April.

Soroptimists International of Friday Harbor is still at work to improve the quality of life of cancer patients by providing transportation for patients who need treatment on the mainland. Ferry tickets are provided for those who need ground transportation.

The San Juan Eagles, a group of volunteer pilots, donate their time and plane costs to fly patients to various airports near treatment facilities on the mainland. Donations can also be made to their tax-deductible fund. Contact: Vicky Thalacker, 360-378-2300 or 360-378-4578 to leave a message.

And last, but not least...

My Quilted Cancer Angel Squares are available free of charge to anyone with cancer. This is my way of helping and being supportive to other cancer patients/survivors. Just call me 378-2485 or write even@rockisland.com for an angel to take flight to your loved one or friend to let them know someone else cares. A card telling my personal story and giving your name accompanies each angel.

Play your cards right!

Eve Burton, Cancer Survivor

Eve Burton is a resident of San Juan Island and a 1992 Breast Cancer Survivor. She annually dedicates this article to all those diagnosed with cancer and to remind everyone to have their annual check-up.

news@sanjuanislander.com

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