From the day a cancer patient is diagnosed, her cancer journey begins. What follows are a few days or weeks of tearful denial, asking oneself whether to shout out loud to the world, "I have cancer!" or keep everything as a delicate secret. After a lot of meditation, pondering and thinking real deeply, it's finally lifting the veil! Alas, at last comes accepting the truth of the matter. Gosh....What a relief!

Since I had cancer, I have appreciated life's journey more! I always noticed the stages of the moon (from the new moon to full moon), I felt happier sniffing the air and enjoying the morning sun or even more playful with the cold rain. Each day is a journey!

One journey I would like to take note and would love to relate to you today is the respite at Anilao, Batangas last June 5, 6 and 7, 2009. This very happy event was sponsored by the Carewell Foundation. I myself was not feeling good that day, but I went just the same, knowing I will be happy communing with mother nature and interacting with other cancer patients as well. We left Carewell office in Makati, Philippines at 10am.

We arrived at Balai Resort, Anilao, Batangas at 3pm. We went to our respective rooms, 3 persons in a room. The cottages were facing the mighty body of water, the South China Sea! It was high tide and the waves were roaring like an angry lion ready to devour. I stayed at the dining hall facing the sea. I wanted to get as much air in my lungs as my air sacks could contain. The rain was intermittent but we were able to enjoy the first day. Buffet was served each meal.

The second day, Saturday, we had different activities. Some stayed in the beach, some played games, some had bible sharings. There's no definite program. Whatever makes each one relaxed is ok. We had bible reading and sharings after breakfast, then had a series of games (Taboo). At night, there was dancing before dinner.

Sunday after lunch is the time to go home. It's time to take all the shells I can gather from the sea, take all the sea breeze into my lungs and stare at the big trees and the beautiful slopes and hills. Time to say goodbye to the birds and crickets, time to say goodbye to the peaceful resort, and wave goodbye to the deep sea, lashing the great crags on the shore. Time to return to the buzzing and busy city of Makati and Manila.

Although I had fever and bad stomach all thru the 3 days, I still thank God I made it to that restful weekend.

Thank you Lord for Carewell Foundation which gives a place to all cancer patients who want to feel they are not alone in their cancer journey. Thank you for your love which we experience in the air we breath, in the water we drink, in the food we eat, in the friends you bring our way, for the family we have! Thank you Lord for another happy journey with you!

For anyone who knows of a cancer patient, you can help him/her by referring them to a cancer support group. Carewell is one of them. You can contact me for more details.

A Happy and Safe Journey Everyone!