Warriors in more ways than one

PEARL HARBOR - Few things are more powerful for me than to meet and visit with cancer patients. They are all different, yet share so much. The Naval base in Pearl Harbor has the most unique position I have ever seen, military or civilian - they have a patient advocate. Her name is Mary, and she is so much more than a nurse or an advocate. She walks patients through their journeys, and is an answer to their prayers. Every hospital, every base in the world would be a much better place if they had someone like her around. The ladies I met today are patients that Mary has helped, and all in various stages. Some of these ladies completed treatment some time ago. Some were just recently diagnosed (in one case just two days earlier). They are all either in the military or have spouses who are serving. Not only have they taken up the noble profession of serving this country in a way that few are willing, but they are also fighting the cancer battle as well. It is an honor to know each and every one of you, my heroes.

My Heroes


Our Angel (Mary, on the far right)