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The Sunday Series (100), with Mark Brodinsky

March 13, 2016 By markbrodinsky 1 Comment

#100.

It’s just a number, but numbers are significant in our lives. They mark. They measure. They matter. They make an impact on nearly everything we do, including the passage of time and space, the years of our journey.

Sunday Series 100 is significant as a milestone in my journey of telling stories, other people’s stories, those which offer courage, hope and inspiration. Yet at the same time the number is insignificant, because it’s the story that’s important, certainly in the lives of those who have the courage to tell it, and in my life, as I accept the responsibility and embrace the experience of sharing it with the world.

For Sunday Series 100, I am incredibly honored to share the journey of someone who has a view from the top. A man who made his way to an important position of power in the state in which I live, only to be challenged almost immediately, not by other political forces, but by the simple will to survive.

Everyone has a story.

I am Mark Brodinsky and this is The Sunday Series.


The Sunday Series (100): Hogan’s Heroes

hogan-family

“In many ways this journey has been an incredible blessing.”
– The Honorable Larry Hogan, Governor of Maryland

Warrior. Survivor. Hero.

You don’t claim these titles because you want to, you claim them because you earn them. To go from fear, to fortitude, to good fortune – you have to fight, you have to battle, you must have unwavering faith and you must never, ever give up.

Meet Lawrence Joseph “Larry” Hogan Jr.

Larry Hogan Sr. & Jr.

Larry Hogan Sr. & Jr.

To have a dream and make it come true is the ultimate goal in life – and few of us get to live the experience. Larry Hogan is one of the fortunate, though fortune is only won because of hard work, perseverance and a dedication and belief in yourself.

In 2014 Hogan was a long-shot to win the top political spot in the state of Maryland, not because of character, or like-ability, in fact he will always be known as the honest and down-to-earth “Larry” to his closest friends. No, he was a long-shot because he represents the minority of those who affiliate with a political party in Maryland.

“Larry” is a Republican.

But on November 5th, 2014, Hogan won the biggest election in the state, defeating the Democrat, Lieutenant Governor Anthony Brown, in a landslide. In a state where Democrats outnumber Republicans 2-to-1, the margins of Hogan’s victory were significant, and so for only the second time in 40 years, a Republican would lead the way as Governor of Maryland.

JA1_0223 copy

The victory had been an uphill battle from an underdog who is used to fighting hard. Hogan has always been a fighter, but as big as the win was, it was simply a precursor of a much larger battle looming on the horizon, one which would put politics and life in perspective.

Hogan was sworn in on January 21, 2015, but only six months later, almost to the day, he stood at the podium in the State House to announced to Maryland and to the world that his robust political agenda would face its greatest challenge, not from the members of the General Assembly, but by a beast living inside of him.

Governor Hogan had cancer.

He had discovered a lump in his neck and it had been diagnosed as late stage-3 non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a very advanced and very aggressive form of cancer. The political game immediately conceded to health concerns and the will to survive.

“I couldn’t believe how quickly it had all happened,” says Hogan. “I went from being focused on how to turn our economy around and put people back to work, to doctors I had just met telling me that a very advanced, very aggressive cancer had rapidly spread through my body. My first thought was how I was going to tell my family and how I was going to tell the people of Maryland.”

Gov. Hogan Announces Cancer Diagnosis

Gov. Hogan Announces Cancer Diagnosis

While his ability to beat the odds has always helped the Governor handle nearly any challenge, when it comes to the word cancer, you can’t help but feel fear. Hogan says, “I think anyone who is faced with this diagnosis is afraid, no matter how good the odds, or remission is. Nothing really could have prepared me for exactly how this journey would unfold. But even then, I knew that this challenge, and my job as governor would be a blessing, and that being constantly busy and being focused on doing our important work would help keep me in a fighting spirit.”

Governor Hogan soon began an intensive 18-week chemotherapy regimen that began with four days in the hospital, in intensive care. Chemo can take you down, but the man who defied the odds to get elected to the top spot in the state was only looking up. “Having a positive mindset is perhaps the single most important thing you can do when you are faced with a challenge like this,” says Hogan. “If you start to get down on yourself, or let yourself become negative, you lose sight of of what you’re fighting for. Staying positive kept me focused on what’s really important: my family, the relationships I had forged with my fellow patients, and working on behalf of the people of Maryland.”

The Gov in Good Spirits

The Gov in Good Spirits

One of those people is a special woman, who in January of 2015 became the First Lady of Maryland. “One of my biggest supporters was my wife, Yumi. We would start every day with a prayer and she was always by my side.

2-27_yumi_hogan_2 IMG_1976

“Of course my father, Larry Hogan Sr. and my entire family was a huge source of support as well. I also gained an incredible amount of support and inspiration from my fellow patients who I met during my treatments at the University of Maryland Greenbaum Cancer Center, especially the kids. When you see other patients, especially children, fighting much tougher battles than your own and facing their battles with such positivity and strength, you can’t help but be inspired. The other patients I met kept me laughing and determined to beat my cancer.”

Every cancer warrior has their own story and so many gain inspiration from others fighting for survival, those who are trying to beat back the beast as well. To become a hero in this struggle you must look for others who are doing the same.

Hogan & Andrew Oberle

Hogan & Andrew Oberle

“I have many heroes,” says the Governor. “Kids like five-year-old Andrew Oberle, who I met through partnering with the Cool Kids Campaign and who was also fighting cancer. Andrew and I became pen pals and he would give me advice on dealing with chemotherapy. Another hero of mine is Jimmy Myrick Jr. Jimmy and I met at the hospital during our treatments and I was immediately struck by his positivity and sunny outlook. I learned he was a 20-year veteran of the Polar Bear Plunge and a Special Olympics athlete. He inspired every person he ever met and I felt he was the perfect person to win the first-ever Governor’s Special Olympics Maryland Medal of Courage Award. Sadly, Jimmy lost his battle with cancer last month. But I was determined to ensure his legacy lived on and now that award will be known as the Jimmy Myrick Jr. Award.”

Hogan & Jimmy Myrick Jr.

Hogan & Jimmy Myrick Jr.

To be respected in a position of political power in America you must be in service to others, and if you do it right, those you serve are ready to respond and to support you, especially when times get tough. Governor Hogan says “the outpouring of prayers, well wishes and thoughtful words was absolutely amazing. I would read every single note. I would tear up over the “get well” artwork that schoolchildren tucked into bursting envelopes. I met with Pope Francis and received his blessing on behalf of cancer patients around the world. Country star Tim McGraw even dedicated a performance of his song, Live Like You Were Dying, to me. These acts of kindness kept me strong, kept my spirit strong and are undoubtedly among the reasons why I am on the road to recovery.”

Ray, Tim & Larry

Ray, Tim & Larry

Fortunately for Governor Hogan the road in his cancer journey did not become the one less-traveled. Instead, the intense chemotherapy regimen to fight the lymphoma worked, and just before Thanksgiving the governor announced he was in remission, although he still gets monthly treatments to keep the cancer at bay.

Just a few months ago and prior to his final round of chemotherapy, the governor paid a visit to the Ronald McDonald House in Baltimore. It was not what he expected. “That visit was a total surprise,” says Hogan. “I thought we were going to the Ronald McDonald House to visit with some of the patients and their families there. I had no idea they were holding a special pep-rally for me. I was blown away that the staff and patients there were so invested in my fight when they had their own problems to deal with. That night taught me a valuable lesson about the incredible good nature of people and how important it is to come together and support one another during times of challenge.”

hogan at rmh pep rally hogan-pep-rally

To truly live the journey of life  you will undoubtedly be faced with challenges, some which at times may seem insurmountable. And that’s why you need the power of others. One is too small a number to achieve greatness, you can’t do anything of real value alone. If you are going to be a hero in your battle against cancer you will rely on other heroes to champion your cause, to support you during your struggle – to love, to serve, to care. Governor Hogan knows he has been blessed to meet heroes at every twist and turn in his journey.

#Hogan Strong

#Hogan Strong

“This has been a life changing experience in every possible way,” says Hogan. “The prayers and well-wishes I received and continue to receive have truly touched my heart. One thing I want to share with others who are going through the same challenges, is that I am just like the more than 70,000 people diagnosed with lymphoma every year – who fight it, who beat it and who continue doing their jobs at the same time. Although I do hope to inspire others who are faced with this challenge, I want them to know that it is their fight, their strength and their determination that has truly inspired me, and for that, I say thank you.”

Sparks-HoganStrong

Trek_GovernorHogan1

Thank you to all the Heroes, every one.

Until next time thanks for taking the time,
Mark

(Postscript: The tough and brutal irony is that while Governor Hogan was able to defeat one health battle over which he had some control, he could only stand by and watch while his sister, Mary Theresa Lazarus, passed away from a rare brain disorder just last week. My condolences to the Governor and his family on their loss.)

Mark Brodinsky: Author, Blogger, Speaker, Speech Writer, Emmy Winner, USHEALTH Advisors
(markbrodinsky@gmail.com, http://markbrodinsky.com/)

Author: The #1 Amazon Best Seller: It Takes 2. Surviving Breast Cancer: A Spouse’s Story
(http://www.amazon.com/Mark-Brodinsky/e/B00FI6R3U6)

Huffington Post: (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/mark-brodinsky/)

The Profile: (http://www.talkinggood.com/profiles/MarkBrodinsky)

The Podcast: (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/sunday-series-courage-inspiration/id1028611459)

USHEALTH Advisors: (http://www.prweb.com/releases/markbrodinsky/072015/prweb12862708.htm)

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Comments

  1. cecilia volkman says

    March 16, 2016 at 9:32 am

    What a great story for #100!! Love Larry Hogan!! A really true, honest person who cares for our state. Great writing as usual, Mark. Can’t wait for your book to come out!!
    Love from Sunday Series #60!!

    Reply

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Mark Brodinsky
Emmy Award Winner, 1996

Ever thought about writing a book? check this out!

Blog Reviews

Love seeing new blogs hit the ground running like this one (by a dad no less), but I also urge anyone vaguely interested in blogging to stay tuned, I am. Good luck on your journey – glad that I am along for the ride.

Rachel Blaufeld

Great blog Mark! I always appreciate reading what you have to say. You are very gifted and talented and hopefully someday you’ll not just blog, but write a book.

 Stephen Koncurat

I’m definitely along for the ride. We’ve all seen how much damage the written word can inflict. More positive writers are needed. And I love how you are using your personal experiences – those with your wife and children – and your gift of writing to open eyes and to inspire others.

Victoria Endicott

Absolutely beautifully written! The girls in your life must be very proud of you. Thanks for sharing Mark, I look forward to reading more!

Gina Glick Jolson

Very shortly this site will be famous amid all blogging and site-building users, due to it’s pleasant posts.

Leila Galloway

Absolutely beautiful! Are you at all thinking of penning a book? You’ve got a fan base out there that really thinks you should Mark. You write so eloquently. Glad that I got onto this site.

Marilyn Lefkowitz

Mark, You are truly a gifted writer and obviously, a special father and husband . Always a delight to read your words.

I’m speechless…beautiful words flow from your heart just like a gentle waterfall into a tranquil stream… thank you so much for the friend request I was blessed the day I clicked confirm.

Lynne Turner Dorsey

From your first writing in 4th grade entitled “People” which was published in the school newspaper, you have always been able to write. Never more so than when you started “Caringbridge” and now your blog, everyone who reads says what a wonderful writer you are. Our DREAM for you is to become an author and encourage people every day. You are by the far the best and we hope and pray you reach your dream.

Bonnie Brodinsky

I know you always thank us for reading but I would like to say thanks for writing.

Stuart Abell

Great piece. You are an inspiration!

Rob Commodari

Mark I just wanted to let you know that you are succeeding in your “ultimate goal”. I have gained so much from your blogs. I look forward to reading them for the special lift that they give me. Thank you.

Amy F.

I love waking up and starting my day with my coffee and your blog! It a great way to start my day with positive uplifting thoughts!! It puts me in a positive frame of mind throughout the day and allows me to reflect on my personal life, make changes, and grow !!!

Gayle Blank

You are quite talented Mark. Thanks for sharing!

Cynthia

I always look forward to your Blog Mark. Thanks for sharing and as you always do, make it a great / remarkable Day!

Chuck Connolly

Thanks for your Blog Mark. It is fun, encouraging and a nice break from a day full of ups and downs.

Jackie Hetrick

With my busy schedule, there is (sadly) little time for reading. But I have two must-reads every time I come across them, the sports section and your blogs. Keep inspiring and following your dream!

Ed Nemec

Mark, you are a truly remarkable individual. You do speak from your heart, I can’t wait to read your book. You are an incredible writer.

Debbie Press

Mark, I am glad I clicked on your post this morning, which lead me to your writing, your goal.
Would like to connect. This speaks to me.

Aileen Braverman

I can’t wait to read the book. I have followed all the blogs and feel so good that I know u guys. You make me cry but you make me laugh too. All the very best to you!

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WOW!!! It Takes 2 is a must read for anyone who has known someone diagnosed with cancer or other life threatening disease. This is the real story of a family lead by an incredible woman, Debbie Brodinsky, who took radical steps to beat the breast cancer beast. The story is told by her husband, Mark Brodinsky, through journal entries he kept starting with diagnosis through one year cancer free. This author's unique ability to pour his heart out onto the page draws you in from the beginning and holds you until the very end.

Thanks to Mark and Debbie Brodinsky for this gift...I have a new perspective on what it means to be a breast cancer survivor. You are a hero, Debbie Brodinsky!

TeeBThree
September 25, 2013

ittakes2_reviews_2

This book gives a heartfelt, in depth description of what it is like to go through breast cancer with the one you love. It is beautifully written and I felt as though I was living it with them! I highly recommend this book!

Jgs17
September 24, 2013

ittakes2_reviews_2

In It Takes 2, Mark Brodinsky windows us into his world where his wife, the cancer patient, is not the only victim. Part journal, part roadmap, It Takes 2 goes to the real humanity of facing the mortality of one's better half. Mark's candid perspective, love, and fierce intention resonate with hope in a story which is about much more than cancer. Mark himself is perhaps the most heroic character for the way he appreciates this life and so many of us in it...as he says, "thanks for caring."

Réné Pallace
September 24, 2013

ittakes2_reviews_2

It Takes Two: A Spouse's Story by Mark Brodinsky should be read by every person who is experiencing serious illness or injury or by a loved one of someone who is experiencing either of those situations. The book is an eloquent testament to the power of love and the healing energy derived from the belief that things will get better. There is not one word of "poor me" from the author or his wife who suffered breast cancer and the radical surgery she elected to have to beat the cancer. Rather, the book is a celebration of the courage displayed by them both in seeing it through.

The book also encourages readers to speak and write down their true feelings and be validated in them. John Mackovic writing in the Palm Springs, CA Desert Sun on November 2, 2013 quoted author and artist Doe Zantamata who said, " To be happy, you don't have to do anything new. You just have to remember how to believe again...Believe everything good is possible. Believe in your dreams. Believe in people. Believe in love. But most of all...believe in yourself." The author, his wife, their family and extended family and friends never stopped believing in his wife's recovery, and I think, in themselves. Read this book and believe.

Paul A. Riecks
November 4, 2013

ittakes2_reviews_2

This book is a must read for anyone with a family member with breast cancer. It takes you through the spouse's perspective from diagnosis to recovery. Mark journaled his wife's journey and put all of his emotions out there. It is beautifully written and inspiring to anyone going through breast cancer. Thank you, Mark for sharing Debbie's story.

Jmu1109
October 23, 2013

ittakes2_reviews_2

A friend recommended this book. This was a great perspective of a man standing beside his partner and passing along to the reader fear, hope, useful information and a broader story than his own. I loved Vinnie the tattoo artist. This is a great book. Thanks for sharing, Mark and "thanks for caring"

Blahsan

ittakes2_reviews_2

This book is a must read. What sets this book apart from other books about surviving breast cancer is that it is told by the husband and his point of view, not from the survivor. At times sad, at times poignant but even through the worst of it you can always feel the love he has for his wife, her strength and the strength of their extended family and friends. The posts that are included from their friends and family lets you really into the heart and strength of the family. I would recommend this book to anyone who is currently going through this, whether you are the person or the caregiver. I also recommend this book to anyone who has a friend that has been or is currently going through their fight now. It was an eye opener for me.

L. Bogash
Seven Valleys, PA

ittakes2_reviews_2

There isn't a shortage of books about breast cancer, but most are written from the perspective of the person who has battled cancer or a physician or other expert. What an enlightening experience to read about breast cancer from a husband and caregiver's perspective! Not only does the author give us insight into his wife's experience and emotions, but he openly shares and reveals his love, compassion, support, and, yes, sometimes anger at the disease as he stands by his wife's side during their journey to beat the beast. Your story may not be the same, but I guarantee if you have a loved one battling cancer, you won't go wrong reading It Takes 2.

 PattiM
September 25, 2013

 

ittakes2_reviews_2

From the moment I opened this book I never stopped reading. Mark invites the reader to come along on this journey that his family went through. I cried, laughed and learned so much. This book will give comfort and knowledge to those going through similar situations. Most importantly, Mark and his family never give up. They get knocked down and get right back up. They fought cancer together and with their strength, determination and will to prevail... They do!

 Jenny Schloss 

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