Three years and counting...

I started a post back in May when Daddy passed the 2-year-post-Whipple mark, but I never finished it.  Partly because normal life was happening, and it's hectic (and I cannot put into words how grateful I am to be in the "normal" place these days), and partly because I had a lot of emotions about that milestone and just couldn't quite get the post out.  But I think this Thanksgiving week is an appropriate time for a long overdue update!  October marked three years since his diagnosis and Daddy is doing well -- enjoying normal life, staying social.  He had a scan over the summer that was clear, and continues to enjoy good health with a few lingering side effects of the surgery and treatment (but nothing that slows him down!). 

I've been thinking of how grateful I am for the past 3 years and the gift it has been.  Among the things my dad and our family have been able to experience since his diagnosis:
-- He has been able to meet and get to know 2 new granddaughters, and enjoy the other 2 even more
-- He was able to take a cross-country trip and help my brother move to Colorado -- a sweet time for them to spend together, just the guys
-- He walked in a 5k in September for the Pancreatic Cancer Network -- one of only a handful of survivors who were able to walk.
-- He has been able to meet my brother's most serious (I'll let you all read into that one) girlfriend ever.
-- He and my mom are preparing to celebrate their 40th anniversary in December!

There are a number of other events and milestones that we have celebrated over the past 3 years, but those are the highlights for me.  We are immensely grateful for the medical staff who treated him, and the friends and family who have supported us all emotionally and practically.  We know you are all celebrating with us!  I'm posting a few pictures below from this summer and fall - enjoy and Happy Thanksgiving!