My words

This is my longtime friend Jason Fischer. We grew up together, lived in the same neighborhood, attended the same church, and shared the same friends. When you spend this much time with someone to start to develop a pretty strong bond. Being that we grew up Catholic, we also shared our sacraments together and attended catechism (Sunday school equivalent). When we graduated high school, Jason and his older brother both attended Texas Tech University. I took a different path in life, I went to a better university lol jk. Either way, when life happens you lose touch with people especially coupled with the fact that I have been off of Facebook for several years. The other day, I had a dream that I should call my buddy Jason and see how he was doing. What I found out brought me to tears. It's a reminder that we should always make time to check up on people that we care for.

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His words

Today marks 5 years since my stem cell transplant at UMC Health System and my second chance at life. The experience taught me that second chances are not your own. Second chances belong to many. Second chances belong to those who cared for and supported you, the ones who encouraged you, and anyone who believed in you. But more importantly second chances belong to those who wore the beaten path before you.

To the often thankless care and compassion provided by housekeepers and supportive care staff. To the nurses and doctors working tirelessly with passion to make a positive difference in many an individual's life. To the patients, living and deceased, who fought not just for themselves, but for those who would come after them. May we never forget them. May we always live our lives in their honor. May we seek to better ourselves and pursue opportunities lost to them and their families.

How quickly that struggle in my life has passed and yet stays with me everyday. I will always strive for... For those families ravaged by cancer. That I may continue to raise awareness of your struggles. For the child too sick to eat. That I may stop to notice God's wonders which render me awe struck. That I may enjoy the simple things in life inspired by youthful innocence. For nurses and doctors who work endlessly to help others. That I utilize my mind to its fullest potential. That I continue to read and learn. That I support math and sciences for all. That I strive to make healthy choices, eat well, and exercise. For the housekeepers and all those working in often thankless roles. That I may never be too busy to stop, listen, and enjoy your compassionate company. That I always make myself available to support you as you selflessly support others.

Courtesy of Lubbock Avalanche-Online

What's so inspirational about Jason's story is that he was so eternally grateful for his experience and second chance that he decide on a career change. He wanted to show gratitude to those that normally go noticed but play a pivotal role in keeping the medical centers running. He has now devoted his career to serving others in the same hospital system that he received his transplant. He moved form Lubbock back to Houston and we have connected as though we never lost touch. This story should serve as an inspiration to all that read it.