An Inconvenient Tumor

Bryan and I just got home from a truly magical "Laughs for Bald Bryan" event. As we were getting ready for bed – me happily kicking off my heels and him ripping off his ankle brace – we just couldn't believe what a night this turned out to be.

There were so many moments that stood out for us, it's hard to pinpoint any specific ones. But I'll try because we don't want to let the memories fade.

Early on in the evening, when a quick tour of the silent auction turned into an amazing (and impromptu) receiving line, to the wonderful people giving us their positivity and well-wishes all before the show. Learning that people had come from Maryland, Atlanta, Illinois, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Massachusetts, New York, Phoenix, Seattle, Las Vegas, Portland, etc. was absolutely incredible. Going backstage before the show and hanging out with the family of the Carolla show, tonight dubbed as "talent." We were able to thank everyone and could see the excitement in the dressing room. It was like a fun groups of guy friends just hanging out before they would go out and inevitably rock the house more than any of us could have imagined. Adam's introduction of Bryan and me on stage, where we received a blinding ovation. I say "blinding" because that spotlight was so bright we couldn't see ANYTHING; it was a blessing in disguise though because had I seen what a packed house it was, I may have passed out. The love in the room was palpable and it was all I could do not to cry from hearing everyone's supportive cheers.

Bryan's welcome and thank-you speech, sharing the news that he had already beaten the initial 6-month prognosis from "Dr. Doom" really, really moved me. Jimmy Kimmel hilariously brought back the ZiggyZoggy beer chugging contest. Again. And again. Greg Fitzsimmons talked about balls and farts. Dana Gould did his perfected impressions of Huell Howser as well as a crazy man vs. crazy chihuahua. Larry Miller getting everyone in fits of hysteria over his "We're so spoiled bit." Dan Band himself singing about Bryan's mom and sexually assaulting my Grandpa. Twice. But don't worry, he loved every minute of it.

Joel McHale joining the group for a last minute showcase about Bryan's genius and his family's recent bout with projectile vomit. Oh, and then there was when he jumped off the stage and mounted me. Hell yes.

Then there was Bad Religion, who tore up the house with a 30-minute set. All for free. They played all their hits to a "conservative and pleasant" audience, save for the people (I'm talking about you, Amy & Jon!) who ran to the stage to do a mini-mosh. It was awesome all around.

The VIP reception was incredible, from the open bar and appetizers to the cupcake station, sake-tasting station, gelato station and naked sushi girl (both disturbing and unhygienic, but the guys loved her!). Everyone seemed to be having an absolute blast and it was incredible to look around and know that the love and support was all for Bryan. Adam and several others of the talent stayed til almost midnight, signing autographs, taking photos and meeting every single fan. As far as Bryan and I, the stories people shared, the encouragement and the love we got not only in that room, but throughout the night, was overwhelming. So many people thanked us for having the event, and it was all we could do not to say "are you crazy, THANK YOU!"

Because at the end of the day (or at 1:45am...wow I am tired and my poor feet ache), we cannot even BEGIN to thank everyone that was there. Don't thank us; we didn't do anything but show up. It's the incredible generosity and support from almost 1300 of our extended friends and family that is getting us through this, both emotionally and now, financially, too. We really don't even know what to say; there are no words for how blessed we feel and how thankful we are to have each and every one of you in our lives.

The show was a HUGE success and we heard from many, many people that it was one of the best shows they've seen. Period. That alone made the night worth it, knowing how much everyone enjoyed it.

Bryan and I are leaving for the Bay area for Thanksgiving on Sunday, so I may not be blogging for the next week or so. But as we move into this week of giving thanks, we couldn't feel more thankful or more cared for. Thankful for the night we had tonight, for the friends and family we have on our side, and most of all, for the Bryan's improving health. There are so, so many more things we are thankful for, and we make sure we're mindful of them every day. Because you never know when life is going to throw a brain tumor, or a speeding bus, or a strike of lightning your way. Cherish each moment and each memory, like the ones we had and made tonight.

Bryan and I certainly will, and will be basking in the glow of this evening for a long, long time. Now, it's time for sleep. Thank you and goodnight.

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