Dear Mandi,

You have the best cancer support group right here, but I think you need to find a local ALANON group where you can go to talk out what is happening as it occurs. The members have all been through a situation similar to yours. They will tell you, as I will now, that it is time to be a little bit selfish to maintain your own life equalibrium.

I don't know if you are going to be able to visit Dennis anytime soon, but that doesn't matter. You have already made the toughest decision; To Get Help, so now it is time for you.

Dennis will be learning a great deal about his drinking in the upcoming weeks. His previous denial may even change to bitterness for a short time (as it did with me). Your continued presence speaks volumes for your inner strength. Please look to others now. You could use a break.

Forgive me for not acknowledging the author:

"This Too Will Pass"

I am in a hurricane right now.
I've been here before.
And I survived.
I am not alone.
God is with me.
My faith sustains me.
It has never failed me.
I'll come through this.
I am strong
and I am loved.

This too will pass.

My prayers for healing strength and recovery,

David