cerebral discharge

My college roommate Joel has cancer.

No one deserves cancer less than Joel. The only person I knew that actually deserved it less than Joel died of cancer already: my aunt Paula Vermiere, who passed away in May of this year.

Joel has always been fit. Some people get cancer and I think “Of course. do you see how poorly he takes care of himself?” But Joel has always been fit.

Joel is kind. Some people get sick and I think “All those years of being rude to people, and taking advantage of the less-fortunate has come back to bite you in the ass.” But Joel has always been kind.

Joel just plain doesn’t deserve this. He’s such a good dude.

I’ll tell you who else doesn’t deserve this: Joel’s wife Kristen. Kristen has always been the model of stability in my eyes. When I first met her, when she was a friend of my wife’s and Joel was a friend of mine, I thought “They’d be a good fit.” They are both so well balanced, and fun to be around.

My friend and co-worker Tom just lost his wife to cancer a few months ago. He didn’t deserve it. He’s a compassionate man.

Why does it often seem that the best of us are inflicted with the worst trials? Joel isn’t superman, but he is a man of intense faith, of unswerving perseverance, and of steadfast character.

If you are the kind of person that prays, please pray for Joel and Kristen. If you are the kind that encourages, please drop them a note at http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/joelmartin

Whoever you are, whatever your struggle, be encouraged this day. Even a 26 year-old cancer fighter can do amazing things. Joel is inspiring people all over with his attitude. Whoever you are reading this, you probably don’t have cancer, but you feel held back by something much smaller. Resist the temptation to sit on your hands and feel sorry for yourself. Get up. If Joel can get up everyday with a positive attitude, so can you.