For twenty years you have held me through thick and thin, season after season. You have been here to nurture me through life’s traumas and joys, held me in healing as I’ve navigated unexplored shores. As my days dwindle and I sidle up to your tides, pass my neighbors cattle grazing roadside, see newborns alongside my favorite farm stands, I am struck that this will be our first summer apart.

I will not be able to avail myself of daily swims, but hold dear those memories as I weather a rebirth from Massachusetts General Hospital’s Lunder 10. I am among the fortunate few, no symptoms though a diagnosis with a single cure at hand. I have been supported from the discomfort of first setting foot through oncology’s door to braving a bone marrow transplant in mid-June.

Held by a community who have stepped in to support us, I leave my sweet dogs in wonderful hands and head to the hospital grateful to have donors who care.

Infusions await and are administered in my room — even a transplant takes only 30 minutes to set me on the road to health.

I look forward to reuniting in September, celebrating another birthday on Island, home of my heart, home of my soul. You will be in my dreams.

Valerie Sonnenthal

Chilmark