One of my favorite people in the world started his own blog today.

This is bad news.

Why? The boy’s got the cancer.

Now, I’m a little hesitant to promote this particular blog, as it will most definitely decrease the readership of my own (as if I had any) because, let’s be honest, when given the choice between reading about “a working girl’s struggle to make a good impression and some thoughts from or about her dog” and a really charming, funny guy’s blog about his struggle with cancer, whose are you going to read? No question; cancer log. Get it hot off the press at: http://thisistheyear33.tumblr.com/.

I, of course, use all of this cynicism in jest. Chad has become quite the inspiration to me since I have observed him experience the grieving and coping process of being diagnosed and beginning treatment. The strength and courage he is demonstrating while tackling cancer make my task of tackling Chicago theatre seem as easy as getting a little girl to take a puppy or Amy Winehouse to ‘take a hit’.

Because of this, I told Chad that I dedicate the rest of my 2010 Chicago quest to him. I stress that this is not meant pretentiously, as I am fully aware that I may not really accomplish anything, but it won’t be for lack of trying in the name of Chad’s Tallons.  I really have two reasons for doing this:

1.       I love Chad, and I want him to know that his bravery and positivity are inspiring and compelling. If someone can face cancer with as much grace as he is, then I can certainly face my own (much less scary) unknowns with comparable bravery, positivity, and grace. I don’t pretend that I’m dealing with anything that matches the magnitude of his challenges, but if Chad can annihilate cancer and still be so damn charming, than I can certainly find the kahones to pursue my professional acting career and find some success.

2.       If a director, potential employer, etc. sees this post, they just may observe the complete selflessness of this dedication (tongue in cheek) and be more inclined to cast/hire me out of sympathy. I believe this is called “pulling the cancer card”. I mean - and I think Chad would agree - Cancer is so much of an asshole, that more than one person should be able use it to gain sympathy for trivial pursuits. Example: If I were Chad’s mom, I would take Chad to the nearest amusement park (probably Six Flags Great America), slap a t-shirt on him that says “I have cancer, and I don’t know if I have enough time to wait in line for this rollercoaster”, adorn myself with one that says “I’m Chad’s mom”, cut in front of the guy with the mullet, and roll up VIP style to ride the Raging Bull.  Just sayin’.

All joking aside, the former is obviously my true reason for keeping Chad at the forefront of my mind as I head to the big, scary, windy city. He is a remarkable guy that is teaching me a lot. And I can’t wait until he gets through his treatment, gives Cancer a big ol’ Indian burn and teste-punch, and can get back to what he wants to do. But, in the meantime, we’re just gonna share some bravery and some grace.

To Chad.

Incongruous and Insignificant Items of Discussion:

·         I met Tommy Wiseau’s real-life doppleganger tonight. He was the groom at the wedding I attended. Why were none of you there that know who I’m talking about?! I demand answers.

·         I found a vintage sterling silver Tiffany & Co. bracelet for $25 at Midland Antique Market in downtown Indianapolis yesterday. I can’t stop showing you my wrist! The lady at the counter kept saying, “I can’t believe this is only $25!” Until I finally said, “I know. Hurry and put it in the bag.”

·         Indiana Repertory Theatre still has not offered me an audition slot for their upcoming season yet, and I don’t think they will. This is disappointing news. This would be a personal milestone for me. Sigh. One day…