Like most of you, I feel like I am living in a washing machine — tumbling, twisting, hit by unexpected items as the many events of the day, some of them ominous, swirl about. However, I have much to be thankful for as we head into Thanksgiving week.
It goes without saying that I am supremely grateful to my wife and family, each of whom makes my life worth living. I remain thankful for my continued good health and energy, particularly as many of my near-contemporaries have had their struggles. For example, one of our friends succumbed just this week to ALS. Her courageous example reminds me that every day of life is a profound gift that I do not intend to waste
I am thankful to live in a country which, while hugely imperfect, remains the world’s greatest hope and beacon of light.
I am thankful for my wonderful colleagues and friends, whose work inspires me and shines its own beacon of light on the world. I cannot begin to state how grateful I am to the many wonderful people who worked tirelessly to support our NCI CCSG competitive renewal. You will always have a special place in my heart.
I am thankful to have the rare opportunity to contribute to advancing knowledge and patient care through my research. My laboratory remains my happy place, and I cherish my current and many former colleagues who have contributed to that work. I am especially grateful to Sandy Jablonski, who is retiring on December 7. She has been the true constant and foundation of the lab since I moved to Georgetown. Everything we have accomplished has her mark on it. I am looking for Sandy’s successor, but she will never, ever be replaced. Please join me in wishing Sandy happiness and contentment as she enters this new chapter of her life.
There will be no blog next week. Have a happy Thanksgiving, and as always, stay safe and be well.
Lou
The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in the text belong solely to the author, and not necessarily to the author’s employer, organization, committee or other group or individual.