No too long ago, my Mom received news that no one ever wants to hear. She was diagnosed with Stage 4 Lung Cancer in early March, 2012. The form of Cancer is very rare, a form that is actually not caused by cigarette smoke or smoking. With it being such a rare form of Cancer, it’s an untreatable Cancer. Before knowing that it was un-treatable, Mom had two sessions of chemo. She started to have complications with the second session and Dr. and Mom decided to forgo any further treatment. The last few months have been difficult but as Mom says “We are blessed with all this time by spending it with friends and family.” Prayers have been answered as she wanted to celebrate her 64th birthday!

How Did Mom Celebrate?

As she woke up on her birthday morning, a neighbor called to wish her a happy birthday and informed her that she had received a few birthday cards in the mail.  To her surprise, a few cards ended up being 64 cards from friends in and around the neighborhood including family pets. What a wonderful gift. (As she told me that, I had chills up and down my arm) She spent hours reading the cards, laughing and crying with happiness. Not only did she thank each neighbor, she was anxious to share the cards with all of us at the family birthday dinner. The act by the neighbors was moving and I know I’ll never forget her 64th birthday as I know she will always cherish her relationship with each one of them.

Scheduled that evening was the birthday dinner at her favorite Mexican restaurant called Prickly Pear.  It use to be located more towards downtown Mooresville, NC in an old church, but recently moved to Lake Norman – a very nice location as it offers a patio overlooking the lake.

Before ordering, we all looked at the cards and were amazed by the kind words offered in each card. As a son, I was speechless…this is my Mom. I know how special she is to me, but to hear it from so many people made me extremely proud to be her son and have her as my MOM! She is loved by so many people and it shows just how wonderful and caring she is.

Our meal was spectacular as we all order our favorites – fajitas! Not only are their fajitas the best out there, they also offer a  margarita called “The Prickly Pear”, which has a pink-ish tint rather than your lime green color. Once dinner was completed, it was time for the cake and opening of her gifts. Mom received a nice purse, Hilton Head photo album, book called “crossing over”, bookmark for the book, Sound of Music DVD and a small rock that says “sassy.”  She has been acting sassy lately and it seemed to be a perfect gift, I think she enjoyed it. Check out her expression, priceless. Now it was time for Red Velvet cake, one of mom’s favorites, from The Fresh Market. Our waiters cut and served everyone with a “big” slice of the cake. Nothing is better than family laughing and enjoying great food.

I will never forget this birthday!  Happy 64th birthday Mom!

I love my Mom so much and she has been described by many as courageous, strong and a loving individual. I’m proud she is my Mom!