Angels Among Us

This post is dedicated to another Freakin' Angel in my life, Dr. Ann Bates. You know how some people are just lucky? Ann isn't one of those people. Or, on the other hand, maybe she is.

Ann is a wife, mom, doctor, and cancer survivor. About eight years ago, she survived brain cancer. Then, last July, she was diagnosed with Myelodysplastic Syndrome, a cancer of the blood and marrow that required a bone marrow transplant. She spent many long months in treatment and is now, once again, on the mend.

Having cancer does not necessarily make someone a Freakin' Angel. Having cancer and still managing to see life's blessings and to be a blessing to others is what makes someone a Freakin' Angel. Ann most certainly qualifies.

Here are some of the things her fellow Angels had to say when asked about Ann:

Ann is smart, sophisticated and so kind.  She is the 'go to' friend for medical advice as well as spiritual support.  Ann has a way of truly always seeing the good in all situations. She is always putting others first, even in the hardest times. Her love and devotion to her son and husband are a true testimony of God's love for us. I admire her dedication to her family, friends, the Lord and her profession and patients. Ann is never short for words and can make the most unpleasant and painful procedures sound 'routine', humorous, and uplifting.  In her fight with cancer, Ann has been ministering to us, praying for others and encouraging us to make each and every day the best one yet!  I can say, without a doubt, that Ann Bates is an angel on earth!  

Ann is a great blend of science and faith. She is a person who can explain to you the medical intricacies of an ailment afflicting a loved one and then pray with you with the faith of one who has walked her share of trials. I used to think of Ann as an optimistic person and now I think that description just doesn't go deep enough. She's not overly cheery and she doesn't deny the challenges ahead, but she communicates an underlying belief that the Lord is in control.  She is comfortable to be around, smiles and laughs easily and just generally an amazing woman.

Ann is a Freakin’ Angel because of her strength of spirit and faith.

I don't know Ann well, but what I know, I'm in awe of.  She is brilliant and genuine and has the most amazing heart of a servant that I have ever been blessed to know.

The thing I find most amazing about Ann is regardless of what is going on in her life--she is ALWAYS thinking of others. She is always willing to lend a hand or give words of encouragement no matter how hard her life is at any given time. She is one of the most positive people I know!

Our community of faith is disappointed that Ann and her family are moving away in June (to Princeton where her husband is the university's lacrosse coach!), but as another Freakin' Angel said, "While I'm sad that she will be moving soon, I'm thrilled that another community will be able to experience her love."

Ann, you are light, love, hope, and joy, and you are an amazing Freakin' Angel!