Each Day, a New Gift.

've always been very close to my family. Even though I've been living out of home for some time now. They're always there; we talk everyday.

Even if I'm on the others-side of the world.

A day wouldn't go by where I wouldn't communicate with them.

Or know they're thinking and praying for me.

They really are everything.

On December 24th, 2016.

My world changed forever.

My dad.

The strongest man I know.

Was diagnosed with a large tumor on his brain.

I thought he was joking; I didn't want to believe it. ''Dad, stop playing. What did the results really say...''

''I have a tumor Lani..'' he simply said. As he watched my eyes fill with tears. And I gave him a big hug, still in shock. Unwilling to believe what just came out of his mouth. It couldn't be....that's my dad. He has to be okay.

Thoughts began to rush into my head! How would be go on if something happened to Dad. What would happen to life as we knew it.

Mum? Her solemate for almost 30 years.

Dad wouldn't get to walk me down the aisle. Or watch his daughter potentially compete at an Olympic Games.

Our family, our rock.

Our everything.

He wouldn't get to be a Grandpa.

All of these things rushed into my head.

Closer to the surgery, when I asked Dad is he was scared, he simply said ''Well yeah Lani, but you've just got to take it each day at a time. And trust God it'll all be okay.''

About 8 weeks down the track. That brave, humble, resilient man has had the tumor successfully removed from his brain!

He was tested during this time.

Tested by his faith.

By affirming his trust in God. Trusting the doctors and nurses looking after him.

And trusting in himself; that everything was gonna be okay.

We are completely overjoyed and thankful.

One that he is still here.

Two, the bastard is gone!

And three the surgery was a success.He is on the long road of recovery now. It's all gonna be okay.

Our family are overwhelmed with the support from all over the world. Thank you to anyone who has reached out to us. Prayed for us. Might be praying for us now.

This has completely changed my outlook.

Like, what if I was diagnosed with something life threatening? Am I going to regret not doing things today, by waiting until tomorrow.

No. Carpe-bloody-Diem! (seize the day!) I've always been a firm believer in that saying.

But seeing how Dad has been so strong. So faithful. So optimistic through this whole process. Has made me, my mother, my brothers - stronger. Stronger in our personal faith. And faith in the world.

Major brain surgery conquered and all Dad wants to do is hit the gym.

Bless him.

I encourage you, whatever is thrown your way.

You must learn patience.

Patience that the future will bring brighter things.

Patience that God always has a bigger plan.

Patience that ''everything will always be okay in the end. If it's not okay, it's not the end.''

So, Smile more. Spread joy. Live without regrets. And seize your day!

Until next time's thoughts...

Keep Dreaming & Believing,

Xx Lani