Dear Family and Friends,
There are many responsibilities that come along with being the eldest child, but nothing gives me more pleasure than expressing the love and appreciation my family holds for each of you. Without your encouraging words and steady prayers, we could not have endured this difficult time. You gave us the strength to see Dad through seven weeks of radiation and chemotherapy treatments, which ended on November 2nd. And you continue to support my family through the extensive recovery process and anxious waiting period.
We are blessed to have each of you in our lives, and we hope that you celebrated a safe and happy holiday season. We enjoyed a quite family Christmas at home, combined with several small adventures over the break. Laura braved the ski slopes for the first time–to the amusement of our parents. Mom and I spent a relaxing day at the Hershey Spa, complete with chocolate baths and massages and an unlimited supply of hot cocoa and Hershey kisses. And Dad enjoyed watching Andrew learn his way around the racquetball court. Dad may not yet have his voice back, but that doesn’t stop him from cracking jokes with the family and reminiscing with old friends.
Dad’s courage and confidence is truly inspiring. And Mom has cared for him with the love and tenderness that only a wife can provide. I trust that you will continue to pray for our family as we enter the New Year. Best wishes for a happy and healthy 2006.
With love,
Emily and Family