Until We Meet Again...

Probably any kid who watched Roy Rogers remembers the first line of the program's song, right?  Happy Trails to You Until We Meet Again...  I wanted a horse like Trigger and to grow up to be a cowgirl.  As children we didn't question growing up/ getting older. But reality happens and eventually illness especially the Big "C" affects all of us in one way/another and we all cope to the best of our abilities.

Local storyteller Sara Slayton and her husband Paul Beckman decided to share their cancer experiences through writing a musical. Actually Until We Meet Again is part of their book Broken Trails: Ambushed by Cancer. Sara has had both Hodgkins Lymphoma and Pancreatic Cancer and Paul, Thyroid Cancer. 

They were fortunate to have local musician/songwriter,  Hans Mayer, compose the play's songs with titles such as Is it Time? That Makes Me a Freak, Tropical Cancer,  Darling of the Waiting Room, If You Need Anything, Just Ask, Boomer's Questions and Hush Now. 

The serious subject matter of cancer was handled honestly with reality, compassion and humor with characters such as Dr. Deity and Jackie the "male"nurse, Darling and a cast of many other talented folks we have seen on La Crosse stages along with some new ones too. 

3/6 Pirates of the Chemotherapy -Yours truly, Sue and Jodi

Sitting with me in addition to Natureman were two fellow cast members from the Pirates of the Chemotherapy, both  breast cancer survivors. We have laughed and had leaky eyes before. It was great being able to share this evening in the audience rather than on the stage.

Following the play was a talk back session with not only cast members but physicians as well. Fortunately great progress has been and continues to be accomplished with patient doctor relationships and the various cancer treatments as well but monies are always needed for research. 

Donations versus ticket charges were encouraged to go towards cancer research with the American Cancer Society.  So even if you didn't get to see the show (one more performance June 2), a donation is always welcomed. Thanks to all who gave of their time for a very important cause.

                               May hope always prevail.