J-day for Julia and Judy

Two people I know online are fighting battles with serious disease.

One is fighting leukemia: Julia. The other is fighting inflammatory breast cancer: Judy. I'm angry and sad at the same time that these diseases are in Julia's and Judy's lives. I'm frustrated, too, to be powerless to help.

I'm also completely humbled by their faith and courage.

Fighting cancer isn't for sissies. It's a long, cyclical process can spiral the patient into exhaustion. Judy pointed out in one of her posts that Thursday has turned out to be a particularly tiring day for her. So from now on, to show my solidarity with Julia and Judy both, Thursday is J-day on this blog.

I haven’t met Julia in real life, but I’ve known her blog for a good year or so. Julia is staunchly supportive of the Korean adoptee community. She writes straight from her heart about her battle with leukemia and her life's experiences. Julia pulls no punches, so I warn you that when you read her blog you must be prepared to share her pain.

I met Judy online about a year ago, and had the great pleasure of meeting her in real life over the winter holidays last year. The highest praise I can give Judy is this: she would be my perfect drinking buddy - uproariously funny, but also sensitive and warm. She loves, laughs and lives fiercely, and writes with amazing wit.

Julia and Judy, you are two amazing women. I have no idea what you will find here on Thursdays from now, but whatever you do, it'll be dedicated to you and will come with my prayers.