Originally published February 21, 2014

I watched Canada win two Gold, one Silver, and one Bronze medal this morning at the Olympic Games in Sochi.

Afterwards, I watched the Canadian men’s hockey team defeat the USA in the semi-finals.

All in all, it was a great start to the day.

But then I got some sad news.

Joy Dockrey, a friend and volunteer at the Fraser Valley Cancer Center, emailed me advising that Doug Aikins (also a friend and volunteer at the Cancer Center) was in the hospital and had just learned that he now had bone cancer.

Doug had cancer three years ago and had a kidney removed.

He had been cancer-free until hearing the news today.

I quickly dressed and headed out the door to drive to Surrey Memorial Hospital (SMH) to visit him.

I knew that Doug’s wife had passed away about a year and a half ago and that he lived alone.

Although I do not know Doug well, I always enjoy talking with him at the Cancer Center.

Doug is a very kind and caring person who brings one or more of Joy’s care dogs into the Cancer Center every week to visit with the patients and staff.

Doug also takes the dogs regularly to Surrey Memorial Hospital’s Palliative Care Unit and a hospice in Langley.

When I arrived at the Cancer Center in the early afternoon, the news about Doug had already spread throughout the center, and everyone was concerned.

As I walked into the SMH, I bumped into several other staff members who asked if I had heard about Doug.

I nodded and was on my way to his room to visit with him.

When I walked into the ward, I saw Doug sitting on the edge of his bed.

We shook hands, and then I sat down, and we talked.

As he spoke, he still had a beautiful smile and a sparkle in his eyes, and I knew I was in the presence of a humble and brave warrior.

He is my hero.

If there were ever a Gold Medal awarded for kindness and compassion, Doug’s name would surely be on it.

UPDATE:  This story has a final chapter, and here is the link:  

His Spirit Was Soaring High Above Like an Eagle.

Dedicated to Doug Aikins, Joy Dockrey, and Sam

I hope my stories are a gift to your head and heart.

Hugs,

Danny

Today’s tune from Danny’s library (purchased):

(Lyrics are unavailable, but I’m still trying to find them online. ~ Danny)

Here are other songs I’m listening to: These Songs Will Make You Smile Today.