Posted on August 14, 2014
by Renee Spindle
There are many anniversary’s and birthdays that we all celebrate throughout our lifetime. The month of August – actually the 14th of August to be exact marks a wonderful day in my family’s history. The 14th of August, 2014 is the 10th, 10th (!!) anniversary of our son Zachary’s last day of chemotherapy in the treatment of his leukemia. It is simply incredibly to me that 10 years have gone by since our last ride home from the clinic with Zachary. Wow! Time really does fly.
This celebration is one of those that I have been thinking about for a while, just because of the significance of my son, The Survivor. My son’s very humble about this subject. He does not really like a lot of hoopla over this anniversary date, this is more of a mom “thing”. And recently I talked to Zach about this date, and he said, “wow that’s right! I do remember.” (or something to that effect). I asked him if it was ok if I write about it, and said, “sure Mom”.
I wrote about Zach’s journey with leukemia a couple of years ago. You can read about it here if you’d like to. He was in chemotherapy for three years, which ended August 14, 2004. This is one of those subjects in our family history I simply felt compelled to write about. I felt compelled to share our story.
Zach’s last day of chemo was a great celebration it seems like it was just yesterday. Travel Man arranged for a limo ride for Zach’s drive home from the clinic that day. The limo was supposed to be the standard “stretch” variety, but what showed up at the clinic doorstep was a Hummer Limo. Travel Man had explained to the owner of the limo company what we were doing, and the owner surprised even us with this awesome limo ride. Zach and his siblings, and cousins had a fantastic ride home, through the In-n-Out drive thru, and had a blast. Just the memory we parents were looking to provide for this guy. He had been through an awful lot in three years and the limo ride was a great memory to the end of that time.
Zach’s 10th birthday newly diagnosed with leukemia
Zach’s 23rd birthday – 10 year’s chemo free, and what a handsome guy!
Fast forward to 2014- Zach is newly married. He and his wife Brookelynne got married last August. They will be celebrating their first anniversary in a week or so. Zach works with developmentally disabled adults, and is an amazing caregiver. He’s healthy, energetic, philosophic about life, and a survivor. Cheers to you Zachary!! We raise a glass to you today and celebrate the fine, young man who you are.
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