We as human beings are made up of two parts, flesh and spirit. We all have a physical and tangible side, skin and bones, muscle and organs. This part of us has a beginning and an end, a birth and a death. This material part of us is complemented by our spirit, our very being, the infinite part of us that can't be touched or destroyed. Our spirit is the very core of our personal existence, confined to our physical body only for our lifetime. It is this incredible spirit that I wish to share with all those who read this book. I hope it especially touches those families battling similar illnesses of their own. They need to feel the power of the spirit to uplift them during their time of trial. We were supported beyond belief, buoyed up when we were sinking in despair, carried through an ordeal where so many lose the fight. I believe I survived my illness for many reasons, one of which was to share our story. May these words touch you in some way, strengthening your spirit, increasing your faith and hope through whatever struggle you face in your life.