I haven't fully answered the question I posed at the beginning
of the chapter.
How does it feel?
I feel fortunate to have survived the disease that took so many
other lives around the time of my diagnosis, and I feel privileged
to help others. There is a dominating feeling of gratitude, and
I feel proud. My spirituality has grown enormously since that time. It has been moulded by the Christian Brothers and the Jesuits.
Last year, I was fortunate enough to travel on a pilgrimage for St. Ignatius of Loyola. One cannot help but be inspired by men such as St. Ignatius and St. Francis Xavier.
I thank God.

The experience has changed my life and my perspectives. I know that teaching is my ministry and that my family is a true gift. Anne and I will celebrate 25 tremendous years of marriage in December this year.
Was it fate when we met at Rainbow Beach in Queensland so long ago? Or was someone looking over my shoulder again?

As a teenager, I was reserved and my self-image was low. At times, it could not have been lower.
Now, I have a healthy self-belief. I am a confident speaker and advocate for the values of my heritage.
I remain fit and active, and my past has left no signs.

I was born into a most loving and supportive family who must
take a great deal of the credit for my success, from my
grandparents, to my parents, and brothers and sisters.
We remain a tight-knit group.
A special thanks to you Mum and Dad.
My parents are fit and well, and have celebrated over 50 years of marriage.
They support me still, in so many ways.
My course to recovery was designed and carried out by a highly skilled specialist, who had faith in his work.

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