13 years ago I was a scared younger man facing his mortality. I spent weeks under the big machines and getting poked and prodded by everyone I came into contact with it or so it seemed. 13 years ago every new piece of information painted a picture more dire than the last. So much has changed since that time.
Today I am off treatment, basically healthy, and optimistic for the future. Today I am blessed with the incredible love of family who are also optimistic for the future. I have a multitude of friends whom I would never have met were it not for this disease. My life is fuller. I have more confidence and less fear. I have incredibly joy.
I have often said that this disease is the single best life altering event I have ever experienced. I stand by that statement. Cancer changed my life for the better. It was a turning point, a doorway if you will, from the man I was to the man I always wanted to be. I don’t think I am completely there yet! I still have a long way to go and so much to learn about who I am. The good news is that somewhere inside of me I still have cancer. It keeps me from becoming selfish and arrogant. It keeps me appreciating all my yesterdays all my today’s and hopeful for all the tomorrow’s yet to come.
Congratulations, Todd! 13 is a lucky number for you. My husband was diagnosed in August of 2018 at age 73. He's always been fit and healthy. After proton treatment, he's doing well. Keep up the good work!
ReplyDeleteCongrats and whoot whoot! Way to go Todd and Mandy. BTW this might be your best post ever, very well written. I love it, and love you too brother.
ReplyDeleteAlso BTW I don't believe in being lucky as Barb writes,yet to each his or her own beliefs. But I know that my (and your) help comes from above!I know that you will keep the Faith! Wings -out
aka Dan and Rose Kasper in So Cal