My dad lived with generosity and compassion. He had a knack for fixing what was broken, whether it was a washing machine, lawnmower, or, as evidenced in his role as a counselor, a marriage or a life that was falling apart.

Cancer had no effect on his generosity. Diagnosed at the age of 54 with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, my dad faced the challenges ahead with courage. Over the next 12 years, he experienced periods of remission, but ultimately the disease took its course.

I remember the last six months of my dad’s life as the most meaningful time in our relationship. As devastating as cancer is, it allowed us the gift of time. We knew the end was near, and every moment with my dad was precious.

Even in the final days of his life, my dad continued to give back, spending time with each family member. He remains to me an example of a life well lived.

This photo of my dad and my son sits on my desk at Hoosier Cancer Research Network. It serves as a constant reminder of the courage of all who face cancer — fathers, mothers, sisters, brothers, children, grandchildren, grandparents, those with strong support structures, and those who face cancer alone. We all have a story to share.