In one of my most recent blogs “Ohana Means Family” I mentioned some very special people. One of the many incredible people I have developed a close relationship with is Ron Waite. I call him “Papa” because not only is he a mentor to me, but a true Papa figure. I haven’t known him long, only about a little over a year, but we’ve made up for lost time. Ron has provided a shoulder for me to lean on during my weakest moments and celebrated with me throughout my greatest achievements. A man of Irish decent himself, Ron gave me a gold Celtic cross necklace this past Christmas. I wear it every day on a chain besides my gold cancer ribbon with my mothers and my birthstone. These two charms are daily reminders of what matters most to me. I have the little bit of Irish heritage, faith in the future, God, and my mother’s spirit to guide me.
A couple of days ago, Ron was diagnosed with Cancer. We spoke about a couple of the options but are awaiting more tests to confirm the next step. How do you cope with the feeling of uncertainty? The anxiousness of not knowing… of trying to remain hopeful with no promise of relief? I watched my mom face these moments with bravery and courage; the same type of bravery and courage I know Ron has within him. Cancer does not define a person. Their physical condition throughout their fight are very little compared to the battle going on within. I promised Ron that I will be by his side through it all. That even 3,000 miles away I will give him all my love.
It’s moments like these that truly make me realise how blessed I am to have someone as special as Ron in my life. I know about Cancer and what it does to the person fighting it. I know how it hurts those who love the person whom has been diagnosed. I know a lot of survivors. I know that Ron is more than a role model to me, he’s my Papa, and he won’t face this alone. A part of me wishes I could fight it for him or that I could rewind time and beat it for my mom, but I’m stuck in a position where all I can do is give my love. I hope it’s enough. Because for someone as special as Ron, that is the least I can do.
We all have special people in our lives who may not be related to us. These special people can be family, friends, teachers, coaches, teammates, or even celebrities that we look up too. They keep us hopeful when we are down and humble when we are doing well. I’ve been so very blessed to have several of these types of people in my life. My advice to my readers is to let these people know how much they mean to you, not just once, but continuously. To always remind them that they are loved and that you are thankful for all they do. One day, you’ll be someone else’s special person!
Some People Make the World Special Just By Being In It
