My Hero Kent Linton vs. Cancer

Kent and Christine Linton are my heroes. They are my parents... and they are the most selfless, humble, and charitable people that I know. They are also the definition of resiliency in the face of insurmountable odds. Recently, these two were presented with perhaps the greatest challenge they've ever faced. At 69 years young, Kent has been diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer and told he likely has one year (we hope longer) to live. 20 minutes after finding out this life-altering news, he was "home teaching" and serving members of his local congregation as part of his church responsibilities. My dad said to me recently, "I'm grateful for cancer because it's brought your mom and I closer than ever before." I cried when I heard it. Not because I was sad, but because their faith and optimism are inspiring. That's who my parents are. They don't want pity.  They certainly didn't ask me to raise money to help pay for treatments. They just want to serve and help people find happiness.  These are the people that have AT BEST... had low to modest finances... yet always made me feel spoiled at their own sacrifice and expense.  I have taken it upon myself to help my dad (and mom) pay for medical bills, and fulfill a bucket list (see below) of things they want to accomplish and enjoy together before the Lord calls my dad home.  I wish my siblings and I had enough money to make it all happen on our own, but the reality is we don't.  So I am asking you, my friends, to help me give something back. Cancer sucks. But my Dad has already beat it.  In the words of Jim Valvano, "cancer can take away all of my physical abilities. It cannot touch my mind, it cannot touch my heart, and it cannot touch my soul. And those three things are going to carry on forever." 

Kent and Christine Linton Bucket List:

1) Limit chronic pain
2) Vacation to Bear Lake, Idaho with their 7 children
3) Train trip to Nauvoo, IL, Iowa, and Missouri for LDS Church history trip
4) Visit Zions, Capitol Reef, and Arches National Parks
5) Visit the Star Valley LDS Temple 
6) Visit Dinosaur Land (yes really... never done it).
7) Visit friends in Florida and tour Epcot Center 

A sincere thanks to all of you for taking the time to read this. Lots of love from the Lintons!