One Million Steps

My dear husband and my two beautiful daughters,

I'm sorry. I left when I shouldn't have and I'm sorry.

I was the one who dropped off the letter at the police station but please don't try to look for me. By the time you read this letter, I will be on the plane on my way somewhere far away from here, just for a while. I do have a reason for writing this letter. I think I should tell you now before you read it in the newspaper.

I was diagnosed with lung cancer right before Tiffany was born. When the doctor told me, I refused the operation because I knew we couldn't afford it then. And I decided not to tell you, Chris, because I knew you would insist I have the operation. I haven't had the operation and it's gotten worse. At my last check-up, my doctor told me some unexpected news. I'm dying. I should have told you earlier but I was afraid.

I'm only telling you this because the doctor only gave me another two months and I promised myself years ago that I would get to know my two beautiful girls before I died. This is entirely up to you. You don't have to meet me if you don't want to. I completely understand.

But if you do decide to meet me, call the number on the piece of paper in the envelope with this letter. I must stop writing now. I'm so sorry. I love all of you so much.

Love,
Claire