I am living proof of the value and benefit of the mission and programs of two outstanding organizations - the Masonic Cancer Center (MCC) and the Center for Spirituality and Healing (CSH), both at the University of Minnesota. The MCC gave me skillful, compassionate medical care delivered with remarkable competence. The CSH offered valuable resources and programs to equip, enable and remind me to be present - to pay attention - during all of life.

Dr. Denis Clohisy, a remarkable man, was my orthopedic surgeon. I asked him once, "What is the most important thing in cancer care?" He answered, "To find a doctor you trust and want to work with." I am so very grateful to have found mine at the Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota and to have actively worked with him toward our shared goal - for me to be cancer free.

When diagnosed with malignant fibrous histiocytoma in March 2003, I learned quickly that I had significant responsibilities as a patient. I named my cancer, talked about it and gathered information from reliable resources. I also put into practice all of the resources available to keep myself as physically, emotionally and spiritually healthy as possible during that time. Those resources, some of which had been part of my life for over 10 years, made a significant difference in my passage through the narrow spot of cancer and its treatment. I also discovered that many of those practices are programs offered by the Center for Spirituality and Healing.

Today I know that healing is at least 50/50 when it comes to the balance of spirituality and science. I feel fortunate to be alive and have made an effort to "give back" to the Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota. Toward that end, since 2004 I have contributed my time, resources and talents. In gratitude, I have established the Hourglass Fund at the Minnesota Medical Foundation to provide general research support to the Masonic Cancer Center with a particular interest in fostering collaboration between cancer research and the Center for Spirituality and Healing.

My greatest hope is that my efforts will provide others with the same opportunities I have had - to choose life and live it fully after passing through the narrow spot called cancer.