I've been blown away from the support I've gotten since I blogged about my recent 2nd cancer diagnosis. Some of you added me to your prayer lists, offered to walk with me or drive me to appointments, sit with me during chemo and phrases like "you got this and we got you" added to my strength and resolve. Thank you!
Some of it came from unexpected places and people; you never know just how much you mean to someone until something likes this happens. Today would be a great day to reach out to someone who may be struggling more quietly and privately and let them know just how much they mean to you.
Others asked questions about colorectal cancer, whether there were signs and symptoms and some admitted to putting-off screenings because, well, colonoscopies are no party. My response to that comes easy: Cancer treatments are far more unpleasant, frequent and invasive. Go get checked.
A few of you have shared your own recent diagnoses with me and we now have a bond that will outlast cancer.
If you didn't reach out because you weren't sure what to say, that's ok, too. It isn't always easy.
Cancer changes you for sure, but in some ways for the better. Sure, I wonder whether my treatments will be effective and there are times when it's a little dark, but cancer is also strengthening me, encouraging me to think more about how I spend my time and who I spend it with, and helping refine my approach to life. It's a reminder that life can be fragile, but also really resilient. It's a reminder that we are often stronger than we ever imagined and that the mental game figures prominently in every illness. It's a reminder to be thankful for medical technology, for the health care workers who are angels and it's a reminder to be thankful for this moment.
