Terry - a Survivor

Hearing the words "you have cancer" is bad enough, but after the operation that removed the tumor and part of my colon, I was informed that they also removed a small tumor from my liver, which meant the cancer had metastasized.  The oncologist did not look too happy when he told me I was in stage 4.  I must have been in total denial because I really didn't believe this was happening to me.  I had it all - a good marriage - two great kids - a job I liked - good friends and about to become a grandmother.  Maybe life was a little too good.  The chemotherapy that was selected for my cancer was infused through a port-a-cath.  I received about a teaspoon daily for 4 months. 

The side effects were minimal - no hair loss or nausea but other small inconveniences which were bearable.  You can imagine the anxiety I felt when I went for my first CT scan but the news was good and it has been good for the past 14 years.  I had one doctor tell me he did not believe that I had this type of cancer and was still living until he saw the reports.  Why am I a survivor?  I ask myself that question everyday when I thank God.  Maybe I needed to see my first granddaughter who was born later that year, or her sister born 4 years later - or to see my two little grandsons, one of which was just born or maybe I am still needed.  I don't know the answer but if I did I would wish it for all the cancer patients.  It's been 14 years - I still think about it everyday and am so grateful to the doctors who treated me and my family for their support.

Courage and hope to all the cancer patients.  You are in my thoughts and prayers.