Among the many things I'm thankful for today, I'm particularly thankful for my Uncle Ronald. He is the one who introduced me to racing in the early 70s and said I simply had to follow Ol' Blue Richard Petty if I wanted him to take me to races in the future. I've said before that it didn't take me long to become a fan of the King on my own terms vs. being told to. haha
He has had an up and down health situation the last few years. About 4 years ago, he learned he had lung cancer - at the same time the younger brother of he and my mother developed throat cancer. My Uncle Earl battled valiantly but succumbedto his cancer 2-1/2 years ago. Ronald underwent surgery, had part of his left lung removed, got a clean post-surgery screen, and seemingly was OK.
But cancer is a cruel son of a b1tch. It returned earlier this year. He has gone through several rounds of chemo and is now in an experimental drug program. I guess we all know the eventual outcome - but his attitude is tremendous. For decades we've gathered for Thanksgiving at my uncle's place. Today was no different. My mother asked him if he was going to be OK to host it, and he answered absolutely.
A few weeks ago, I contacted The King's daughter and asked if she'd frontline an autograph request for me. I sent her a hat I'd originally bought for myself on ebay - it had never been worn - told her Ronald's story, and asked if she'd King to sign it for him.
Sure enough, he did and it arrived Monday. I took it to my uncle today, and he was truly pleased to get it. So once again, the Petty family has played a role in helping make the life of someone else a bit more enjoyable. And for that, I'm truly thankful.
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Schaefer: It's not just for racing anymore.
updated by @tmc-chase: 11/24/17 01:09:50PM
