It is bittersweet but thank you Jen for this update on Paul.
It is so very hard to believe Paul's journey here has come to an end. Paul made it all seem so easy with his humor and matter of fact way of telling us the details of his journey and keeping us all updated. Paul will be missed beyond words that can describe our loss here on MPIP, my heart aches for his family and the loss, they no doubt will feel for a very long time.
After spending the past 7 years here myself, the heartbreak here is palpable and I know why so many choose not to linger long if there is no reason to stay. I know I've adjusted my own involvment as it can sometimes become detrimental to my own PMA (Al Dakota's abbreviation for Positive Mental Attitude) and journey with melanoma. Sometimes the grief and loss is so heartbreaking, you just can't take any more.
Everyone here is so very brave and fearless and God Bless all those that continue to help, support, fight alongside and heal others. This is a tough journey and no one knows what their or their loved ones outcome will be when they start visiting, sharing and becoming involved with others from the MPIP family.
I think Paul left us all a great gift in his passing and we should all honor Paul by paying it forward in our own melanoma journey, passing it on to others we love. Paul's determination, optimisim, relentless fight against melanoma combined with his positive, humorous, witty and strong PMA, not only inspired us but will now heal us too! Also, the fact that Paul never gave up and when one door shut, he was waiting for the next door to open. Right to the end, Paul was looking at the next option on his list and waisted no time in setting the wheels in motion. I'm comforted by knowing how busy Paul was right to the end, no idle moments thinking of his own mortality but always finding a way around obstacles in those little slivers of hope that he found around each new corner he encountered. What an amazing man, he will be remembered for a very long time as we and newcomers continue reading his encouraging posts. I think of so many other beloved MPIP family that have also passed on and remember them with the same heartfelt loss.
Blessings of love, support and healing to all who come here as we cope with another difficult day for our MPIP family.
Rest in Peace Paul and thank you for all your insights and uplifting spirit you gave so freely to all here.
Swanee
I
.
