Friends are like family

Being a 38 year old (at least for a few more days) single female who recently lost her job and about to undergo life changing surgery is extremely overwhelming. However, for each milestone or setback, I've always had my family to support me. Fortunately, my family extends beyond the bloodline to some amazing friends who have been a part of my life for nearly every bump and bruise.

The blurry picture above was taken last Monday night at the final, FINAL meal prior to my pre-op diet.  The handsome man is one of my oldest friends whom I met in college at Kutztown University, Phil Martucci. 

It comes of no surprise that the #1 man in my life is my father. When I first went away to college, my father would pick me up every other weekend to come home. By the time I met Phil, in 96 I believe, I no longer felt the need to have to go home all the time. Not because I didn't want to see my parents or old friends but because I had my home away from home in Phil.  

During our college years, I would spend a lot of time hanging out in Phil's dorm room smoking cigarettes, writing papers, watching Will & Grace, and playing Slingo on AOL! His room was the meeting place.  A group of us always gravitating to his room.  He always had this sense of independence and I think it was something all of us really craved! Maybe it was cause he had a car! Just kidding. 

If you know me, you are aware that I'm an emotional person.  Hard headed but full of heart.  I've battled mental health issues my whole life.  I was not medicated during college or most of adulthood. My therapy sessions always came from Phil.  He knew me.  He tried to understand me. He was and is the only person to truly ever call me on my shit where I actually listen. The amount of bullshit that he has had to endure with my life makes him an angel.  He could have run at any time. Like family, they don't. 

When I say that Phil has seen me at my worst, I mean it.  Pre Prozac, in love with a gay guy, hyperventilating, ugly cry WORST!  He had always been the person that no matter what kind of asshole friend I can be, he is there for me no questions asked.  Deep down I think that he feels he has a responsibility to take care of me. And if I'm being honest, it's the most heartwarming feeling knowing that someone can love me that much.

As I go through this weight loss journey, Phil has been one of my biggest champions.  The things he does for me are beyond measure and not something I could ever repay.  The one thing I can give him is my forever gratitude. I will forever be in his debt. I know "thanks" isn't enough.  I only hope that I can repay him for his endless generosity by getting healthy.  I know I am not alone in this.  

While I undergo surgery, my Rocky will be safe at Phil's with his partner Dave and my fur nephew and niece, Simon & Ceci. The day after surgery, Phil elected to be my person to get me home and set me up after discharge.  I couldn't be in better hands.