The last few months have been a wake-up call for me on just how quickly cancer and other health-related illnesses can sweep into people’s lives and quickly change them.

A few weeks ago, I found out a close friend of mine in her mid-60s has a small spot of breast cancer.

My friend has already been through a lot of other health-related issues, along with the loss of her husband a few years back.  She has already been through so much, yet is facing her surgery next week with bravery and faith that there is a higher power watching out for her.

Two or three months before that, I watched as news unfolded about the city of Albert Lea’s building inspector, Doug Johnson, who is also an Alden firefighter, who is battling a high-grade form of brain cancer.

I have interviewed Doug many times for stories over the last nine years — many times in his role as a fire inspector for the Freeborn County Fire Investigation Team. From what I have known about Doug, he has always been someone I respected and someone who seemed like he was physically strong  — you have to be to be a firefighter.

Though I cannot say I am close to his family, I can say that I, like many others, was shocked to hear this news. Though it is a negative situation, it has been awesome to watch as the community has rallied around him and his family in thought, prayer and resources,  and it is truly touching to see how his family is dealing with this challenge.

Doug is the second area firefighter — that I know of — who has dealt with cancer in the last year.

The other firefighter, Brett Boss, returned to work at the Albert Lea Fire Department after his own battle with Ewing’s sarcoma.

Brett and his wife, Danielle — who used to work at the Tribune — are similar in age to me. With two young children of their own, I have always been amazed to watch their strength. It has made me question what my own perspective would be if this were to happen to me.

Last week, on Thanksgiving, I found out that the husband of another close friend of mine was having chest pains and was transported to Rochester.

After going through tests, doctors determined he would need bypass surgery. He was going through that on Monday, and I am waiting to hear the results of the surgery as I type this.

While all four of these situations have been different, they all have a few things in common.

In each case, the person with the cancer or the  health problem, along with their families, have been quick to lean on their faith as they have dealt with the unknown.

It sure has made a difference to have that perspective. Don’t forget, the community is standing behind you.

 

Sarah Stultz is the managing editor of the Tribune.