Why? You ask.
Well, it’s 5 and 1 day.
It’s the fifth anniversary of my diagnosis of stage four pancreatic cancer. And, according to some statisticians, that means I am now a member of the 1 percent club — those who are still ticking five years after their diagnosis. I’ve never been a member of a one percent of anything.
God has blessed me, for whatever reason.
It’s 5 and 1 day
When I was diagnosed in 2010, I saw five oncologists. One said three months. One said nine months. I even went for a second opinion to MDAnderson, a cancer center of excellence in Houston. The doctor there was very smug and suggested nine months.
I have been blessed to have some wonderful doctors. Dr Alan in Dallas and Dr. Jerry here in Austin have been a real blessing to me. Their nurses (Jean, Colleen, Anna, Thomas and Hannah) have made me feel like family, and who can turn down a warm blanket?
So, over five years, I have been blessed to walk my daughter down the aisle to marry Rick. Along with Patti, I’ve been there to welcome Grayson, Rick and Casey’s baby girl. I got to see my son return to college. I celebrated my 65th birthday, even though no male member of the Aldridge family over three generations celebrated their 57th birthday. Patti and I celebrated our 30th anniversary. I got to enjoy time with Patti’s father and my mother before they passed. I get to enjoy life with friends and family.
Most importantly, I got reacquainted with my spiritual beliefs. I have no doubt been blessed by God, and I celebrate His presence every day. Our God is a loving god and I have been fortunate to be surrounded by his protective feathers (Psalm 91). He is the reason I am still here, I am convinced. I try to thank Him every day with praise and prayers of thanks/gratitude. He helps me smile every day. Thank you, Lord.
*****
The picture you see here is a celebratory one. For the 5 and 1 anniversary, Casey and Rick arranged for the state flag to be flown over the Texas Capitol in my honor. Brought me to tears. What an overwhelming gift.
To all my friends and family, I thank you for your prayers and wishes of well being. I hope you enjoy God’s love as I have and it brings joy to your hearts. God bless you all.
Grayson gets me to smile every time I see her.
fighting damien 
September 20, 2015 at 7:52 PM
WooHoo!! We all knew you could do it! Sometimes faith and love can do more than all the doctors put together. Love ya, “old” friend.
September 20, 2015 at 8:23 PM
The only person who can tell us about our longevity is God. He definitely has work for you to do, Derek. . . Possibly being the inspiration we all need! You’re making Him proud, Derek! To another year of celebration!!
September 20, 2015 at 10:15 PM
So honored to call you friend having refound you. and here we are 45 years later.
September 21, 2015 at 4:30 AM
So proud to be called your friend!!❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
September 21, 2015 at 7:26 AM
Yessss. Thanks for fighting, for setting records, and for letting your friends in on your very personal journey. I so enjoy reading your posts and getting a look inside that fascinating mind of yours. Love and hugs to you and Patti.
September 21, 2015 at 8:37 AM
My unending prayers and love…always. Keep fighting until that glorious day my dear friend.
Love, Linda
Sent from my iPhone
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September 29, 2015 at 8:25 AM
Cindy just forwarded me the link to your blog. This is so incredible, Derek! My uncle suffered from pancreatic cancer and unfortunately did not end up in the 1%. I’m so happy for you and your family! You are an inspiration!
– Meredith Dyson
October 7, 2015 at 9:17 PM
Derek, congratulations on being in the 1%. Although many of us already knew you were in the 1% of great people – generous, kind, empathetic, fun, creative, genuine — all the best traits rolled into one — or should I say… 1 !.