On the Flip Side

October 25, 2007

Three years ago today was when I did a self-breast exam and palpated the tumor on my left breast. Since then I went through the rigors of a cancer patient. Today, I am a survivor, lucky enough to be living each day as they come and appreciating life even when it sucks. I have bounced back from the sickness. I’d like to declare that I have licked it, but to do so would be foolish and presumptuous. It is enough that I can declare at this moment that I am healthy, with no signs of recurrence. I am happy with that.

In 2006, my Dad was diagnosed to have cancer too. He underwent surgery but did not have chemotherapy or radiation. He underwent hormone treatment, but did not respond to it, so we tried another drug. Thankfully, he responded; but the side effects of the drug put quite a toll on him. He can hardly eat and he has a hard time moving about, a far cry from the vibrant man living a full life.

I was the patient and now, I am on the other side – I am the relative of a cancer patient. I hate to imagine what the rest of the family went through and is going through (especially Mom), first with me, and now with my Dad. The emotional impact and the stress must be overwhelming. At the risk of sounding selfish and stupid, I think it was easier when I was the patient; the stress was much easier to cope with then.

Cancer of any kind is one sickness that I would not wish upon even the worst of my enemies.