3 YEARS!

October 24th is a special day in the Nygard household; it is a day of celebration and gratitude. It is a time to celebrate life, celebrate Eric's health, celebrate what we have learned, and celebrate blessings and miracles.

Today marks the three year anniversary of a day when Eric had an appointment with a urologist, while I was at work. Never in a million years did I imagine the outcome of this appointment. I was waiting for Eric to pick me up from work, so I decided to give him a call. He had just left the doctor's office, and he was on his way to pick me up, but he sounded different. I asked him how the appointment went, and he simply said that it would be better if we talked about it when he picked me up. His response made me anxious and worried, and I had the craziest ideas run through my mind, but cancer was something that didn't even cross my mind. Eric picked me up and as we were pulling out of the parking lot, he told me he had cancer. I instantly broke down in an uncontrollable cry (i really am not a big cryer). We had no idea how serious things were. We didn't know how far the cancer had spread, or if he'd need chemo or radiation. All we knew was that Eric had cancer, and the doctor said it was essential that he have surgery as soon as possible. That was one of the longest, hardest, and most emotionally challenging nights of my life.

When Eric was diagnosed, it changed me. I had a different attitude and outlook. Instantly, I saw things from a different view. Little things that I previously thought were a big deal, just didn't seem to matter anymore, and some things that I would have overlooked became increasingly important. I looked at people different – I had a different love, appreciation, understanding, and concern for people. When a person starts dealing with death, life takes on different meaning. I wish I could maintain those feelings and perspectives always.

That is why I like to celebrate today. I want to always remember how I felt and how fragile life can be. The event that occurred three years ago was completely life changing, and it taught me a lot. Sometimes, I feel as though I have lost the perspective that I gained on that wild day, and I don’t want to lose that. Celebrating is my way to help me remember.

I am so grateful for Eric and the strength that he has. Eric inspires me. I appreciate that life's challenges have allowed us to look at our life differently. I appreciate that God has blessed us with this opportunity to improve.

I was looking through some of the stuff we have from the time Eric was diagnosed, and I found a tv clip that was done on him. I still get emotional watching it, even though I hate seeing myself talk.

And this is my favorite newspaper article they did about Eric.

It is crazy to me to see what has happened in our life in the 3 years since Eric was diagnosed. That was the beginning of a whirlwind of blessings, trials, and miracles.

We have been so blessed!