A Wake-Up Call Named Cancer
Have you ever been through an experience that was so horrific that when you got through it, all you wanted to do was put it behind you and never think about it again?
That was me and my adventure with cancer. The brief story – I was diagnosed in 2011, underwent treatment, was clear for 6 months, and then had a second occurrence, which meant surgery in 2012. In October of 2015, my book about my journey, “Magnificent Misery – From Adversity to Ecstasy” was released.
Once the book was written, I thought, “Now I don’t have to think about cancer anymore.” A short time later, a little voice in my head started whispering that it was important that I talk about cancer. I ignored the voice. It whispered again and again and again. I argued, begged, and pleaded.
“Please don’t make me talk about this. Been there, done that, got two t-shirts!” But because I knew the rightness of the request, eventually, I surrendered to that gentle insistence. I made the commitment and booked my first talk.
When I shared my thoughts and experience with cancer clients at the Optimum Wellness Clinic recently, I felt the yearning of fellow sufferers who needed to be able to talk fully, openly, and honestly with someone who had travelled that road. Because I was brave enough to tell my story, it gave them permission to do the same.
I have also resisted blogging about cancer – at least until now. But the writer’s job is to write, and the speaker’s job is to speak. Since I wear both of those hats, I choose now to show up in print as well as on stage with my topic, “The Healing Call of Cancer “.
If you are suffering from cancer, or are a caregiver of a sufferer, this blog is for you. We’ll talk about the good, the bad, and the ugly of this pervasive disease. I have found answers that fit for me – they may or may not fit for you. If you would like to participate in this discussion, please do so with questions and comments. This is a big and complex topic that deserves everyone’s thoughts, knowledge, and opinions.