A Special Honor

   I was given a special opportunity to speak to a support group of cancer survivors on Tuesday night. I want to thank LoRita Kahn for giving me this opportunity. LoRita is the lady who asked me to speak at the Relay for Life event. She is an amazing lady that does so much to help cancer patients in our community. It is an honor to call her my friend.

The meeting was held in the conference room at the Teton Medical Center. As the group started to arrive, there was a lady that looked very familiar to me, but I could not place where I knew her from. After everyone had arrived, a nice lady named Amy told everyone they would hear from a guest speaker, and then go around the room and let everyone give the group some information about themselves.

Amy introduced me as the guest speaker. “My name is Shane Wilker, and I should give you a little background about me,” I told them. I explained I was a Regional Parts Manager for John Deere, a consultant, and an author. “But most important of all, I am the Worlds Best Grandpa!” I proudly exclaimed. Then I told them about losing my Angel Shannon and the lessons I have learned. I explained I have learned how to truly appreciate what I have. I also told them what I have learned about strength. “When I was younger, my definition of strength would have been how much weight I could bench press. But after watching what Shannon went through, and thinking about what all of you have had to endure, that’s the meaning of true strength,” I said. I explained that every day, my goal is to do the things that she can be proud of. I told them about the Foundation and how rewarding it has been.
After I finished, everyone introduced themselves and told us a little about their battle with cancer. I listened as one by one, they told the group about their journey. The lady I thought I knew was seated straight across from me. When it was her turn to talk, she looked at me as she introduced herself. “I was one of the lucky patients that got to go on your limo ride and dinner!” she said. “I knew I had met you somewhere before, but I couldn’t place where it was,” I said. “I want you to know, you’re the first one that has ever gotten my husband to wear a tuxedo. He wouldn’t even wear one to our wedding!” she said jokingly. We all had a good laugh about that. As I listened to these women talk, I was overwhelmed with their strength and positive attitudes. It was such an emotional night to listen to these brave women, and the ordeals and tests they have gone through. I am honored for the opportunity to have met them and I want them all to know what an inspiration they are to me.

I am so blessed for all the opportunities that have allowed me to meet and talk to such wonderful people. I am grateful for the opportunity the Foundation gives me to help as many cancer patients as I can. I want to thank all of you again for the support you give me every day. I know my Angel Shannon is grateful also. I will always LOVE AND MISS YOU sweetheart.

Next week: Happy Birthday Brittney

P.S. My current example of my strength now is if I can get the lid off the pickle jar.