Napkin Notes

1. Napkin Notes: A Father's Legacy of Love and Life Lessons

"Pack. Write. Connect."

Origin of Napkin Notes: Garth Callaghan began writing daily notes on napkins for his daughter Emma's lunchbox when she was in second grade. This simple act evolved into a powerful tradition of love and connection between father and daughter.

Impact and Purpose: The notes served multiple purposes:

• Daily connection during busy school days
• Sharing life lessons and words of encouragement
• Creating a lasting legacy in the face of Garth's cancer diagnosis

As Garth faced multiple cancer diagnoses, the Napkin Notes took on new significance, becoming a way to ensure his daughter would always have his guidance and love, even if he wasn't physically present.

2. The Power of Daily Connection Through Simple Acts

"You know how much you love your daughter?" he said. "God loves her more."

Small acts, big impact: Garth's story demonstrates how seemingly small, consistent acts of love can have a profound impact on relationships and personal growth.

Key aspects of the Napkin Notes tradition:

• Daily commitment to writing a note
• Thoughtful selection of quotes and messages
• Adapting the content to Emma's age and life experiences

The practice not only strengthened Garth's bond with Emma but also inspired others to find similar ways to connect with their loved ones, highlighting the universal need for regular, meaningful communication in relationships.

3. Facing Cancer: A Battle for Life and Family

"I have cancer again."

Multiple diagnoses: Garth faced several cancer diagnoses, including kidney and prostate cancer, starting at age 42. Each diagnosis brought new challenges and fears, particularly concerning his role as a father and husband.

Impact on family life:

• Emotional toll on Garth, his wife Lissa, and daughter Emma
• Financial strain from medical bills
• Constant uncertainty about the future

Despite the difficulties, Garth approached his cancer battle with determination and a positive attitude, often using humor and his love for his family as sources of strength.

4. Embracing Vulnerability and Seeking Support

"I am surrounded by caregivers. Without them, I don't know where I'd be."

Building a support network: Garth's cancer journey emphasized the importance of accepting help and support from others.

Key supporters in Garth's life:

• Emma: His daughter, who became a source of strength and inspiration
• Lissa: His wife, who managed family life and provided unwavering support
• Colleen: His sister, offering emotional support and strengthening their bond
• His mother: Organizing fundraisers and providing maternal care
• Medical team: Especially Dr. Swainey, who became a trusted ally in the fight

Garth learned to be vulnerable and accept help, recognizing that his battle against cancer affected not just him, but his entire family and community.

5. The Importance of Living Intentionally and Expressing Love

"Words are powerful tools. They can tear down and they can build up. Every day we hold that power."

Making every day count: Garth's cancer diagnoses led him to focus on what truly matters in life – expressing love and creating meaningful connections.

Ways Garth lived intentionally:

• Writing Napkin Notes daily
• Having open conversations with Emma about life and death
• Prioritizing family time and experiences
• Sharing his story to inspire others

His experience underscores the importance of not taking time for granted and actively expressing love and appreciation for those around us.

6. Preparing for an Uncertain Future While Cherishing the Present

"826 napkins will never be enough"

Planning for the future: Facing an uncertain prognosis, Garth took steps to ensure his presence in Emma's life, even if he couldn't be there physically.

Actions Garth took:

• Writing 826 Napkin Notes in advance, one for each school day until Emma's high school graduation
• Creating a "Life List" of lessons and experiences for Emma
• Having difficult but necessary conversations about death and his wishes

While preparing for the worst, Garth also emphasized living in the present and creating lasting memories with his family.

7. Inspiring Others to Create Meaningful Connections

"Will you join me? Will you become a Napkin Notes dad or a Napkin Notes mom or a Napkin Notes wife or husband?"

Spreading the message: Garth's story gained widespread attention, inspiring others to find their own ways of connecting with loved ones.

Impact of sharing the Napkin Notes story:

• Media appearances and interviews
• Creation of a Facebook page and social media following
• Inspiring others to write notes to their children or loved ones
• Emphasizing the importance of daily, meaningful communication in relationships

Garth's message transcended his personal story, becoming a call to action for others to prioritize connection and expression of love in their own lives.

Last updated: October 29, 2024