My Letter to Cancer
90
We are not put on this earth to see
through one another
We are put on this earth to see
each other through
-Gloria Vanderbilt
Tim McGraw - Live Like You Were Dying...
Lessons I've learned from cancer...
To Cancer; I'll get right to the point, you suck. There is nothing nice to say about you. You are mean, cruel and vile. Your destruction needs to be halted. Immediately. You are my biggest enemy. I wish nothing but the worst for you. I've witnessed you destroy loved ones. I've also witnessed total strangers bond due to you, but you won't get a kudos for that. I don't like you.
This letter is being written to you from an advocate's perspective. I've learned many lessons along my journey as a caregiver, cheerleader and supporter. These lessons have changed me for the better. You've caused worry, stress, anxiety, heartache and I refuse to let you control my emotions any longer. I never imagined the destruction and chaos you could cause until I entered into your vicious world filled with turbulence and terror.
I've learned that you not only affect the patient but you affect their loved ones, their friends and families. You are ruthless and can often take matters to the extreme. I witnessed my mother's six year battle with colon cancer. You were very mean to her. She lost the battle but I'm still here to fight her fight and advocate for her. As my husband and I enter into our fifth year of his fight with Prostate Cancer we vowed not to allow you to win. It's not all about you.
I've learned that I shouldn't let my guard down because you are sneaky and hide out waiting to attack again without notice. Have you ever considered the aftermath of your damage? How you've drained people not only of their emotions and strength but you've also exhausted their life savings. You have no clue, do you? You just set out on a mission to destruct and try your best to succeed. I applaud the survivors who beat you. They kicked you to the curb...did it hurt? I hope so.
I've learned that we should expect the worst but always hope for the best with each new test, exam, xray and doctor visit. It's also important to make memories along the way because we never know what will happen from one day to the next. Support teams are crucial. Whether they are family members or support groups discovered elsewhere. Accepting life one day at a time is mandatory. There will be good days and bad days. Relish the good days and learn from the bad days.
I've learned that during a cancer crisis you truly find out who your friends and family members are. Some people are just truly clueless and fear you! I used to fear you, I don't anymore. I just detest you, that's simpler for me to do. There's no point in complaining to others, or whining or saying "why me" because no one really wants to hear it. Sympathy actually makes a person weak. Instead I've learned to nudge victims of yours forward and remind them to hold their head high. It's vital to have patience with cancer patients. You might be trying your best to take them down, but I bet you didn't expect someone like me to bring them right back up. Yes, you have some competition, are you feeling a bit inadequate?
I've learned to embrace the small miracles. The tiniest bit of hope is always welcome and appreciated. Each day that we arise (even though you are festering in someone's body) it's still a gift that you could never take away! I've never heard one nice thing about you. Not one. You suck, is my favorite thing and I hear that quite often.
I've learned to always ask questions. There are no silly questions! Doctors might think they have all the answers but no one knows your body better than you do. Yes, cancer even you don't have the upper hand at times. There are new medicines available every day that can whip your ass. Maybe the doctor isn't aware of them yet and I could teach him something new to help another patient. I bet you don't want us to know all the updated potential cures but guess what we have access to many new updates. Google rocks, but you suck!
I've learned that we should always take a family or friend to each appointment. No matter how much strength the patient says they have, an extra set of ears is extremely important. While the patient speaks with the doctor, the team mate could take notes in a journal. A detailed journal is crucial. I call mine the cancer bible. I never enter a doctor's office without it. I have supplied information to doctors before they even received it in their personal file. Yes, they were a bit shocked, but doctors only have so much time allotted per patient, I'm their helping hand.
I've learned to appreciate the medical workers. The nurses, techs and PA's. They are human. They are usually working in an understaffed enviroment and might seem a bit frazzled at times. I go out of my way to make them feel appreciated with a compliment or a smile. I've witnessed them being yelled at by stressed out patients and rushing doctors for something that wasn't even their fault. I place myself in their shoes and treat them as I'd want to be treated. Hey cancer...not even you could make me become a bitter, hateful person! The more damage you cause the more strength I obtain to help others fight you! Did I mention that you suck?
I've learned to listen and to learn from other cancer patients journeys. First of all I'm thankful for the survivors who are still around to share their survival stories and help me so that I could help others. Their stories inspire me to inspire others. Their stories give me hope to pass on hope to others. Victims continue to fight you daily, your strength is weakening.
I've learned to laugh more. Mostly at you! Like "in your face" kind of laugh. For a while you robbed me of my humor but it came back with a venegenance! It's a gift that I share with others who need a laugh. Laughter is therapeutic. Sure there are days when I don't feel like laughing, but I do my best to find a reason just to irritate you. Humor is truly the best medicine. For the record, you are pond scum.
I've learned that cancer sucks! Yes, you suck! It would be nice if you could just slither away never to return, but you aren't going to do that because you enjoy the attention. You cause so much heartache, but you don't care. What bothers me the most is how you could attack small defenseless children who never had a chance in life. These innocent, beautiful souls fight you with valor which amazes me. The strength and determination of all cancer patients amaze me. I've witnessed patients and their loved ones sitting for hours while receiving chemo treatments. Some would sleep and some would laugh yet they all have a bond. YOU! Little by little the wonderful world of medicine is beating you, they are taking you down to your knees! Before you know it you will be history. Just dust in the wind. We won't say R.I.P. On a final note...You SUCK!
P.S. Don't think I'm done with you yet. Each time you make my heart sad because someone I care about is suffering due to you, I will be back to remind you that you suck! My friend is at her husbands bedside at this very moment, his time on this earth is almost over. I'll be back, but I hope I'm not.
3/27/11 ... I'm back. My friend's daughter was diagnosed with Stage 3 Liver cancer today. She's 34 years old. She kicked you to the curb once and she'll do it again.
Martina McBride - I'm Gonna Love You Through It
 | Amazon Price: $9.95 |
 | Amazon Price: $12.99 |
Boy dying of brain cancer meets Tim Tebow and Dwight Howard...
- Dying boy meets Tim Tebow: Dying boy meets Tim Tebow, Dwight Howard as cancer spreads but doesn\'t t
: Dying boy meets Tim Tebow, Dwight Howard as cancer spreads but doesn't take away his love of life - Cancer Etiquette
Chances are we will all be effected by cancer at sometime in our lives. This article shares the do's and don'ts from my perspective.
|
Steve Jobs: "The Journey Is The Reward" book by Jeffrey S. Young, 1988
Current Bid: $9.99
|
|
Steve Jobs, Walter Isaacson, Very Good Book
Current Bid: $14.64
|
Are Cancer Doctors Still Clueless?
- Are Prostate Cancer Doctors Still Clueless?
This article is updated daily, weekly or monthly depending on where we are with treatments. Prostate Cancer is still a mystery to doctors. It seems like many doctors are still clueless. More research needs to be done. Hopefully in time to save my hus
vote upvote downshareprintflag
- Useful (18)
- Funny (7)
- Awesome (46)
- Beautiful (35)
- Interesting (23)
Sunshine....from the very bottom of my heart, I applaud you for your incredibly beautiful "attitude," wisdom and positive spirit. This hub screams of a brave woman who knows how to react to the enemy with dignity & fiercely protect her loved ones. Your belief of embracing each day anew, to go forward with heads high & a smile for those around you, is a blessing you share with grace.
My hatred for the cancer beast is strong & constant. It took my precious sister, my dearest friend. I despise cancer with a vengence. But we must not give it our time or energies, as you so eloquently have written here. We must continue to go on with hope and that burning desire to live each day to it's fullest....to love and help and smile. WE are bigger, better & stronger than the beast. It sucks, yes...it's nasty and ugly and it's total destruction is near........Peace, my friend.....absolutely AWESOME hub.
I couldn't type for a few minutes. My eyes would not allow it. I thought my husbands fight with this demon was over. But as you know it is never really over. More tests next week. Who knows what that will bring. Cancer sucks. Another friend is fighting for her life too. Cancer sucks BIG time.
Very moving and thoughtful hub sunshine. Love you xoxox
I COULDN'T HAVE SAID IT BETTER, YOU SAID IT ALL!!! THINKING OF OUR LOVRD ONES , FAMILY MEMBERS, FRIENDS WHO WAS AND IS STILL FIGHTING THIS AWEFUL C WORD. AS I CALL IT.. YES INDEED, CANCER SUCKS BIG TIME!!! YOU SADI IT ALL AND I SAY DITTO!!!!!!!
Thanks for writing this, as it speaks for us all, who are facing this horrible cancer.
Thank you all for joining me in kicking cancer to the curb. I'm glad we all agree that cancer sucks! Your thoughts and caring words are appreciated. xo
I too share your opinion of cancer, as I've seen it destroy and take away many loved ones from me, and almost took my beautiful daughter. You are a very strong women Linda and we need to keep fighting this horrible disease, I continue to pray for your husband every day, love ya my friend:) ge
In memory of Bryan Bonner ... Dec 20, 1961 - Dec 31, 2011
Thank you for your wonderful words... I can't tell you enough how much I love your hubs!
In memory of my mother, my angel Jan. 11, 1935 - Feb. 20, 2002
A very heart felt hub Sunshine625. I think almost everybody has had to do deal with everything you wrote about...in my case it was my mother.....and since then I realize the pain and suffering that occurs everytime I hear those dreaded words...."He or She has cancer"...just last night we heard those horrible words. I hope you current battle with cancer continues to improve. My family continues to send your family good wishes. Voted up and emotional...too bad we do not have an emotional button.
Sunshine - I agree with every word of this. I lost my friend and step father to oat cell...it was a 5 year battle that we all learned so much from unfortunately.
I am so sorry. I wish we could find out a way to KILL cancer!
Up and everything.
Ok.. had to take a tissue break. Whew.. Where to begin?
I live in a family with a genetic disposition for cancer. For most, it is a matter of time.
I have lost many people from cancer, both of my Grandmothers, two cousins, friends and one special person in particular. Fortunatley my Mom and her sisters have survived it.
In Memory of Will Horne 1989-2006
Will was a student worker at the University I worked at. He was the sweetest most naive, God loving, innocent, country, fun loving, nerd you would ever want to meet. He was the only child his parents were able to have and cherished him. As a poor student, he would bring in something special to the office every morning... cards, doughnuts, you name it. His smile and laughter would light up the office. He was a friend to everyone. As the days passed, that special glow about him started to fade. At the age of 19, he developed large nodules on his chest and went to the doctor. He had Hodgekins Lymphoma. His health declined quickly. He was confined to a hospital for 4 months and never got to leave. Those of us who were his friends would leave work and spend the evenings with him in his hospital room playing cards and hot wheels cars. Will got weaker and weaker into he faded into the shadows of cancer. He never once complained about his fate, but he said over and over that he didn't want to die.
Will didn't get to experience many things in his short life. He focused on his education and never had a girlfriend, he never got to leave the State of South Carolina, he never got to see the ocean or have the children he looked forward to having.
There is nothing more painful in this life than attending the funeral of a promising 20 year old child while "Knocking on Heaven's Door" is playing.
Since then, I have been angry about Cancer and the fact that so many good people are taken so young. The only thing I can conclude from this is that God knows what he is doing and perhaps death perhaps may be better than life and a reprive from suffering. At least I hope so.
Thank you for your hub. I pray you stay strong and vigilant throughout your battles. If I were cancer, I would be scared of you.
Thank you for giving us a platform to share our tears with you and remember those who have gone before us.
In Loving Memory of a Precious Woman, daughter, mother, grandmother and(MY)SISTER...My Best Friend,
"Patricia Michele"-January 31st. 1943- August 26th. 2003
Very well said. We are all effected by Cancer in some way during our lifetime!!!
Sunshine, I think you have expressed what so many, many people experience and wrestle with on a daily basis, but can't always put into words. Thanks for giving this a voice. Your attitude is awe-inspiring.
We are 'lucky' in that my brother has CML. This is a chronic leukemia that is fortunately very manageable these days. He will have to be treated for life (horrendous financial implications), but so far the medication is doing its job wonderfully. As he also has an intellectual disability, it is tough for him to understand it all, but he is doing well right now. We have so much to be grateful for.
I continue to think of you and your husband and to pray for both of you for strength and courage for each day. Thank you for sharing a small part of this journey with all of your Hubber friends. Your husband can rely on quite an ally in his corner! I absolutely love your spirit! I can just imagine that coward cancer cringe...
A very remarkable article... I felt every word of it. Writing is really therapeutic for everyone, especially for those in suffering. I would like to share my hub to you so you can read about some little pieces of information in between. This is about what writing could do in a person's life. http://thesingernurse.hubpages.com/hub/Because-Wri
Also, thank you very much for appreciating the very hard working allied health professionals, especially the nurses. And I commend you for being the greatest caregiver that you could be. I wish all your loved ones the strength, courage, and happiness.
Sunshine - you have written a beautiful hub. You speak so well - Cancer sucks. It is an enemy but with your attitude I believe we can one day find cure. Attitude is very much part of healing. Even doctors don't understand how your body works. If you have a strong spirit and mind - you can beat the odds. It is true - you will truly find who your friends are when you are struck with cancer. I have seen loved ones pass away because of cancer. Cancer Sucks! Thank you for posting this hub. Voting up and Sharing this letter with everyone else!
The only thing I have to say is.......THANKS.
Tearful and Speechless....I'm fighting prostate cancer as I write this ....Yes Cancer SUCKS...
I agree with every word! You have written the letter we all should write, with courage, anger and persistence! I felt you sincerity and honesty. Great article and I loved the way you wrote it! Voted up and up,
Tina
I guess I have been somewhat fortunate in that having had cancer twice the tumors were removed successfully. I have had good surgeons and did do some chemo therapy.But I have survived for a decade.
I'm a bit overwhlemed with the messages, comments, emails and cancer journeys that I've heard about just in past few hours. Please keep on sharing. We all learn from each other. Whether you have lost someone you love or you conquered the beast your story is important and in one way or another someone reading it can relate. Thank you all for sharing. Also feel free to post a memorial to your loved one with their name and dates. Your words are appreciated.
My mother died of cancer as well as many other family members. I am one of the lucky ones to have survived cancer for the past 20 years. I wish everyone that has this deadly disease could beat it down and out. One of the hardest things I've ever seen was my son's best friend who had a brain tumor at the young age of 10. It broke my heart to see what this boy endured. He fought right to the end.
You're right Cancer does SUCK! You've written such a magnificent hub. Keep on fighting and I wish the best for your husband.
Cancer does suck! Your wonderful attitude proves that we must all fight it in every way we can. Fight to keep up our spirits when cancer strikes close to us, fight to help the patient and loved ones go on, fight for more research against this horrible disease. You've expressed what we all feel so eloquently!
Father died of it, nephew 4 yrs old too. Is a terrible experience and always keeps us wondering why and how come..?Take care Linda
LORD
Thank you for sharing Susan, Stephanie and Lord...cancer can't defeat us! We are stronger and better than IT.
I have lost my Grandfather, my aunt and Grandma's sister to cancer. Cancer survivors in my family are far more numerous... my mother, my aunt, my Grandmother, two more of her sisters, and I had a breast cancer scare last year. The lump turned out to be benign. None of this waiting until I am 40 to start getting tested. I am at high risk for both breast cancer and ovarian cancer.
Great hub, Mom!!! Your words are powerful! Cancer will one day be defeated because of such strong advocates, like you.
What a moving hub, and so strong too. Cancer is such an awful thing and we have all been affected by it in one way or another...
We have to keep fighting against it.
Linda...
In terms of "Strongly worded Letters," ...this was overdue and thank you for writing it.
It was difficult to read at times. Everything you have written here resonates with my mom's brief battle with that bitch cancer...which sucks.
Cancer fights dirty and ended up starting out with a sucker punch on her. She got Pearl Harbored and mom didn't win that battle.
Cancer sucks.
Thomas
WOW, Thomas your comment was about as powerful as my letter. Thank you for sharing...your mom was blessed to have a son like you!
Linda,
There's not much I can add that others haven't already said, except... "Cancer Sucks, but YOU ROCK!"
First off Sunshine, I voted this hub up and you earned marks across the board. I have witnessed first hand the destructive nature of Cancer and I know it's not a pretty sight at all. My father died of Cancer after it ate through everything between his waist to his throat. My sister suffered through breast cancer, which she had to have her left breast removed and lyphnodes removed in that same area, which caused a water retention problem in her left arm. My grandmother had colon cancer surgery but went into an early stage of dementia shortly afterward. My mother suffered through colon cancer as well, need to have at least 18 inches of her intestines removed, leaving her with a scar and a 15% chance of it's return, which is something I have to think about from time to time. My sister is soon to celebrate almost 20 years having beat it. My mother so far is working on her 10 year anniversary. My grandmother has passed due her dementia state ended up worsening. Thank you for sharing. It's something I can relate to a lot.
Cancer really sucks!! WTG LINDA!
I agree Lord !!! Many, many people agree as I've been hearing journeys all day and evening. It's pond scum.
....well dear Linda I would imagine at least every family has a story or has heard about someone in the neighborhood or at work about cancer - my personal story is my mum and I lost our dad and husband to lung cancer back in 1992 at the tender young age of 74 and the irony is he never even smoked - it was the dust in the tin mill where he worked all of those years in order to feed and shelter his small family - ironic isn't it - the very thing that gave him a life - a living , if you will, took it away from him in the end - an end that came too short and too quick and I lost my best friend ever .....
lake erie time ontario canada 9:11am
Thank you for sharing your journeys Epi, Flora and Ray. I just heard a story yesterday about a 45 year old man in Nebraska who was dying from lung cancer but held on until his dad arrived from Denver which was 6 hours away. I don't know if his dad made it in time.
So many stories, so many people lost. Cancer sucks!!!
From the heart let's all say it "cancer sucks" For those who have passed on I honor you in your fight. For those of us still here FIGHT ON ! Superb hub Sunshine, my best friend, Luv Ya
The year prior to my layoff, one of our communication's project managers and his family began the roller-coaster ride of cancer with their 15-year old son, who developed a brain tumor. He died after a horrendous year. I read their journey at CaringBridge and frankly, don't know how the family survived the up and downhill journey. Unfortunately, not long after I was laid off, so was the father of the unfortunate cancer victim. When it rains, it pours. He struggled with his faith after his son's death and inflicted self imposed grief for that, too. I heard it stated by an employee fortunate to keep their job during the heavy layoffs that "he went religion crazy". I was horrified that even through his trial, some find it so easy to judge. My faith in humanity has been shaken to the core. Brilliant, compassionate, empathetic article, Sunshine, of which the world needs more.
Thank you for sharing your story Amy. Hopefully others will learn from it. Never judge another unless you've walked in their shoes.
Also thank you for mentioning CaringBridge (caringbridge.org) which is an amazing site to cancer patients to post blogs of their journeys. I follow a few friends cancer journeys on there, they are my heroes.
Just got to reading this now Linda. A hub from the heart, and something so many of us can relate to.
I didn’t realise till now that your mother died of cancer. I am sorry for your loss, and I imagine it must make what you are going through with your husband doubly hard.
I can relate to the feeling you express of cancer being mean, as I’ve felt that way often seeing how it has affected my father; some of his vertebrae have been destroyed. Another friend of mine died a few years ago when her children were still young, which was so, so sad.
On the other hand, my mother survived breast cancer 24 years ago, and says it made her appreciate life more, very much like my friend whom I wrote the hub about a few days ago.
I hope the writing of this has been cathartic for you, and thanks for sharing it.
"Hey cancer...not even you could make me become a bitter, hateful person! The more damage you cause the more strength I obtain to help others fight you!"
I love these words you've written to cancer and hold the same sentiment.
I am a cancer survivor twice over and have deemed cancer is not going to beat me. Like you whenever I can encourage someone who is going through the roughest of times I do. It may be just holding their hand and letting them know I'm there.
Cancer is a horrible, insiduous, disease that lurks within the dark corners of the human body, seeping into our emotional psyche trying to destroy our resolve. But we must continue to fight against this toxic venom and not let is win the battle. Cancer sucks!
Dear Sunshine. I think you writing a letter to cancer is a brilliant idea. I am a lung cancer survivor of almost eight years now but the scary thoughts of it's return are in my head almost every day. I think cancer sucks too and I think I should write a letter to cancer and get some thoughts and feelings off my chest. Thanks for writing this hub and giving hubbers a place to express themselves.
Welcome back to HP and HH Yvonne, I hope your fathers treatments went well. You were in my thoughts. Thank you for being you!
Thank you very much editor and minnetonka for sharing your journeys. Kudos to you both for kicking cancer to the curb! Wishing you both the best of health as you move forward. I highly recommend writing a letter, it's very cathartic! Cancer sucks!
Linda - I posted this hub on My Favorite Hubs of the Week. I really enjoyed reading it and it touched my heart dearly. Thank you.
Thank you very much Tara! I'm honored.
Sunshine, you are such a fighter and have such a positive attitude. Your mom was lucky and your husband IS lucky to have you by their sides. Beautifully written. Lots of votes here, including up!
This letter is awe inspiring. Your have touched on so many emotions. You really nailed the feeling. I have known close family members who had to deal with cancer. Though, they were all fighters. Its so hard for everyone involved. Thank you for this wonderfully motivating letter. I could have really used it back in the day. I will definitely pass on the message to who ever I know. Its that good. Thank you. Voted up up and away.
Cancer does suck! It's impacted (and taken) the lives of way too many people I love. Thanks for writing this.
Thank you Vicki, Jey and Deborah ... let's continue to spread the word that we won't be defeated by cancer! Thank YOU for your help!!
Well done and I am sure that your bravery in telling your story will help others along their paths also.
Take care and here's to so many more to share on here.
Eddy.
Well said!!!
Caner like most internal diseases are every hard on those who watch people go trough it everyday. Weather we accept it or not nothing in this world is easy. Not any kind of sickness. Life is never fare to anyone.
In Memory Of Dennis Kelly Feb. 16, 1950 - Jan. 10, 2012
I'm sorry to hear about your friend, Sunshine. This must be a hard day for you. Thinking of you....
Thank you Vicki!:)
I'm so sorry for your loss, Sunshine. May God's peace be with you and with your friend.
My immediate and extended family has been impacted by cancer on a number of occasions. I pray for the day that we're able to limit the devastasting impact it can have in our lives. Beautifully written. Up voted.
Very moving! Beautiful and needed. Thanks so much for pouring out your heart and soul!
You are right Sunshine, I too lost one of my friends who had mouth cancer because of tobbacco.I remembered when I met him last time.Its really touching hub.thanks
Thank you Kelley Eidem - PatVogl - Maxravi - Kelleyward and Icountthetimes for adding your input towards our fight against cancer. Cancer sucks!
Tears....thank you for your openness and humanity in writing this. You are greatly appreciated and you found a voice that perfectly describes this insidious disease.
Writing can soothe a lot of pain, pain from depression; pain from loss of a loved one; pain of cancer. It is good you wrote this hub.
Well said. I wish the best for you and your family. Keep us informed on your husband. Expect good news.
Thanks for the great Hub!! I think you said here what ever person thinks on a regular basis. Having lost both my parents to cancer when they were still relatively young, I can't agree with you more that cancer "sucks"!!!
Voted up!!!
Thank you Billy, Keith and Double for sharing your thoughts. Join me in kicking cancer to the curb!
Sunshine,
Nothing I can say that has not been said.....
and YOU have said it all, for everyone who has ANYTHING to do with this mean, cruel and vile enemy.
Hugs,
Chris
What a fantastic way of approaching this awful disease. You do have the power, not the other way around.
I can totally relate to this hub having cared for and lost my mother and my husband to cancer. I also have a sister who is a breast cancer survivor so am very familiar with how devastating this can be.
Voted up and beautiful.
Empowering.
Great hub! I wrote a hub on cancer as well if you're interested! 'Cancer in all forms.' I voted up and truly related to this one! Thank you for sharing!
Thank you for this hub. I've lost many family members and friends to this disease.
My Sister fought and lost her battle after 3 years. She endured ovarian cancer. Cancer sucks.
For all of you I ask you to pass on the following information to your loved ones.
CFOA.org is Cancer Fund of America. Have your loved ones sign up and their doctors sign it. Cancer Fund of America will FREE OF CHARGE send to their door a box of necessities EVERY month, including a birthday gift. This is free of charge and it does not matter what their income is. Please pass this information on to everyone who might be in need of it. Thank you.
Thank you bakingbreak for the info! I'll help spread the word.
I'm sorry for your loss. Cancer sucks!
Fantastic writing. Maybe I'm in the minority here but I'm sure they have found a cure for cancer. There's just too much money in the drugs. Anyways, I really enjoyed that piece. It touched my heart.
Kx...You are in the majority. I've witnessed the costs of the drugs, oncologists, procedures and all else that goes along with cancer...it's insanely ridiculous. Thank you for sharing your thoughts.
Extremely well written, I could feel the emotion as I read it.
I love what you wrote about cancer. Yes it really sucks and the treatment costs are awful.
Thank you for your well-written ferocious attack on cancer. It certainly sucks and can change one's life almost in a heartbeat. Have dealt with it myself personally and have know others currently fighting the good fight plus some who have lost it. Believe once our medical system starts looking at wellness and prevention of disease as their main goal we will begin making major strides in this battle against cancer and other horrible diseases. Meanwhile we should also applaud those involved in alternative treatment research for their part in the front lines fighting to make new information and treatments available. GClark
Thank you apple, felix and GClark for sharing your thoughts. Always appreciated. Cancer sucks!
Fabulous Sunshine! I lost my brother and my father to cancer and my sister is dealing with breast cancer. I applaud you for attacking this awful disease!
Thank you so much for this well written Hub. I'm very touched!
Blessings,
~Lisa RusticLiving
My you did give Cancer i good whipping. Yes it SUCKS ALOT its one of the worst decease ever and people scorn AIDS but Cancer eats away every fiber of your inner being if it gets a chance to. I've seen lovely healthy people dwindle away by this cruel sickness. Someone i know died recently of it so sad it brings so much pains and suffering.
May God keep that sickness away from me. Hope things goes well for you.
Thanks for sharing your story :(
Keep in high spirits
SUNSHINE ~ YOU ROCK! This is awesome. You are awesome. You got my votes for sure. Thank you for writing this important message. You know I am one of your cheerleaders ~ stay strong my friend!
Sharyn
This is such a personal piece and yet your journey affects so many of us--thank you, thank you!
This is a great hub my Aunt is battling cancer so I understand the pain that it causes. Never stop fighting
I loost my best friend to breast cancer last year. She battled with courage and conviction for two years. I was very hard to see her so sick in the end. It went to her bones so fast because the Oncologist said she had it some time.
It wasn't found until she had gone through menopause. They found something in her mammogram and she hadn't even felt a lump. It was very aggressive and even though they told her she didn't have long, she actually lived longer than they had predicted.
The sad part about this was that she had four children and six grandchildren. Her youngest grandchild was only born eight weeks before she passed away. At least she got to see her.
I think we can all say that somehow just about all our families are affected by cancer to some extent. Sometimes it is good and people win their battles. At other times, people fight with a vengeance to the end to no avail.
Thank you so much for writing this amazing and awesome hub Sunshine. You have touched so many lives with this and I congratulate you for putting down in words what so many of us feel and also relate.
God bless you love Beautybabe.
What a beautifully written and inspiring hub! Cancer does suck - thank you for writing this hub that's obviously struck a chord with so many people that have been affected by cancer.
Voted up, awesome and sharing far and wide.
Keep up the good fight!
This says it all. I am a Cancer survivor, so I definitely identify. I just hope one day they find the cure.
Sunshine, this hub is very touching.. We lost my Paw-Paw (grandfather) to lung cancer in April of 1986. I was very young but still remember him coming home from work and giving me the apples he saved for me from his lunch box every day. He quit smoking several years prior but worked around Asbestos a lot at the Air Force base where he worked. It was the asbestos type cancer. I miss him. Thank you for this hub :0)
Thank you all for sharing your comments, thoughts, stories and journey's. Those who read them will learn from them, relate to them and understand them. Something we could all agree on is that cancer sucks.
You are AWESOME Sunshine!
In memory of my husband Dennis Kelly 2/16/50-1/10/12 and my sister Christine Maxwell 3/9/48-2/20/02
You are AWESOME Gangsta Granny. Our voices will be heard today on World Cancer Day and everyday! RIP Dennis and Christine.
Oh Sunshine - This remarkable and well written hub touched me so. Cancer took my 42 yr, old son, Mother, ex-husband and more. These brave people all took care of themselves. It makes no sense and makes me angry. I commend you for your bravery.
Thank you so much. Voted up and across!
Thank you vocalcoach for sharing your story. I'm sorry for your losses. Your words will be appreciated by the many people who read this letter. Our words are further proof that cancer truly sucks.
Proud to say my Grandmother is a cancer survivor! Great hub!
Hi Sam, Your Grandma kicked cancer to the curb! That's great news! Thank you for sharing.
Linda this is such a kick ass hub...LOVED IT!
I REALLY wish I could have kicked the ass of it from my dad.
Anyways, can't bring him back into this life.
Yesterday my friend's dad passed away from prostrate cancer so, I gonna fwd this to her.
voted way way up as awesome!
I seem to be knowing more and more people, especially women, getting cancer. Glad to say, most of them survive it. Thanks for this hub. Voting it Up and Awesome.
I LOVE this! I am a 37 yr old wife and mom to two little boys fighting brain cancer. This hub was so well written and true. Awesome!
Beautifully written story Samuel, oh so sad but so very true. We've all been touched by cancer in some way, there's not a person out there who doesn't have a loved one or know of someone who's battled cancer. Some have fought their battles and won and other's bravely fought and lost.
As a former insurance agent who specialized in cancer insurance I met scores of people all over the state of Colorado who had stories to tell. Cancer spares nobody.
My only advice to anybody reading is that the statistics are not in our favor and I urge everybody to get your annual followups, annual pap tests for women, breasts exams as your doctor specifies and for men and women over a certain age followup on your prostate and colon exams.
I recently lost a dear uncle to prostate cancer, sadly if caught early enough prostate cancer is one of the most curable cancers out there.
Don't let your health, or your loved one's health go. See your doctor regularly.
Linda
Hi Ruchira, I'm sorry for your loss and your friends loss. Prostate Cancer is sneaky, yet can be treated when caught early. Men need to have their PSA checked yearly. That's another hub, but I thought I would mention that. Thank you for your comment:)
Hi alocsin, I'm happy to hear that you know many survivors. They kicked cancer to the curb. Well done!
Braincancersux, I'm sorry to hear about your health issues. Wishing you the best of luck.
Hi Linda, Thank you for your comment. I'm not sure who Samuel is but I thank them also for sharing this letter.
cancer doe ssuckk and I wish you and your husband all the best in his battle. I lost my favorite uncle to cancer last year. It's no fun, though,he made the best of it. I did a review of his book, Two Copper Coins. if you haven't read the review (and the book) you may want to. It's very encouraging!
Up and shared!
Very touching and interestingly written. It would be hard to find anyone who hasn't been involved in cancer's meanness in one way or another. I lost my Dad to colon cancer. He was only 71.Best wishes Sunshine. My prayers are with you.
I am in my thirties and until recently never lost anyone nor knew anyone with cancer. I got lucky for a very long time, sadly my luck did not last and I lost an aunt to cancer last year. Lovely writing.
You are kind to express yourself in this 'letter'. The people that posted comments are also generous in their sharing. Thanks to you all. I am a two-time cancer survivor and, indeed, cancer is cruel and relentless. I'm sorry to her how cancer has impacted your world....I wish you and your husband strength beyond measure.
Best Regards,
PDX, Rebecca, Thoughtmonkey, Alifeof design... Thank you all for sharing your thoughts, wishes and wisdom. I appreciate you taking the time to comment.
Cancer Sucks.
So sorry you have had to go through this but your spirit shines through. I lost my father to lung cancer. It was not pretty.
That is really great letter to cancer..Thanks
Thank you HSB and htodd. Your comments are appreciated.
Hi Sunshine
God bless and thank you for writing this letter to cancer.
My grandmother died of stomach cancer in 1980.
Cancer is running rampant in our society and I wonder why.
Voted up and away!
This is such an awesome testament to the tenacity of your spirit and the power of love! Thank you for writing this moving letter Sunshine!
Voted up and Shared
I love the way you have written this attack on cancer. It does indeed suck and you have conveyed that beautifully without giving in to its power. I think rather than weaken the cancer foe you have strenthened the will of its victims to fight back with positive determination and armed with knowledge.
Your own journey is recorded with a real sense of the emotion and anger toward the enemy(cancer) and you have much to offer cancer victims as you advocate for them and empathise with them as a consequence of your experience in confronting the enemy.
Cancer is the most feared and the most hated disease, I'm sure. It takes a lot of guts and gumption to fight it. A positive approach and faith is the foremost requirement to tackle it. This is the most difficult part. I' m glad you and your husband are doing it.
I echo all your sentiments in this hub. A very positive write and congratulations on your write up being included by the Cancer Resource Center, in their newsletter.
Voted up, awesome and shared.
I can see why this letter has been chosen to be published by the Cancer Resource Center in Texas. It is written from the heart, clear and concise yet very powerful. Your positiveness shines trough your words!
Thank you for this inspirational hub. My prayers are with everyone who is fighting against it.
Hi Sueswan, I'm sorry for your loss. Thank you for sharing with us.
Hi Curiad, Thank you for your comment and thoughts. Always appreciated.
Anonymous, Your message means a lot to me. It's why I do what I do by being the best darn advocate I could be with the resources that I have. I witnessed to much sorrow and pain and I'm not the type of person to just sit on the sidelines and be a wallflower. We all have a voice...use it the best way you can. Thank you for your thoughts.
Have I told you lately that you are AWESOME!!!??? :) ge
Hello Rajan and Princessa, Thank you so much for your comments. I appreciate them. I am happy that the Cancer Resource Center will be using this letter in their newletter to help so many thousands of people. It's mission accomplished for me. That's awesome. Thank you for your support.
Thank you Dee!
Thank you Ge!
You are both appreciated and awesome!
Cancer is a great teacher - if for no other reason but to reconnect us with our body, and how amazing it is that it can heal itself!!!
Very good point Eliminate Cancer! Oh how I wish we could do that. As I sat in the oncology room today and looked around at the many patients receiving their meds it made me sad, yet glad they were fighting.
you're welcome, Linda. I pray for your continued strength and courage!
Wow! That's quite a letter and having lost loved ones, friends and patients to this horrible disease, I agree with everything you had to say to cancer and am waiting for the day it will be eradicated.
In the meantime, it's strong spirited advocates and loving people like you who help others through the ordeal of fighting cancer.
I particularly liked what you said here: "It's also important to make memories along the way because we never know what will happen from one day to the next. Support teams are crucial. Whether they are family members or support groups discovered elsewhere. Accepting life one day at a time is mandatory. There will be good days and bad days. Relish the good days and learn from the bad days."
Though, like you, I would not credit cancer for "teaching" those truths, it certainly can be the stimulus that makes us aware of them.
Voted up across the board except for funny.
Hi HBN, Making memories is vital for the loved ones who are left behind. This is all they will have once cancer has won. I have a photo collage of my mom displayed in my foyer. It contains different photos from happy moments spent together. I look at it everyday and smile. Memories will never fade unless we allow them to. Thank you for your comment.
What amazing strength you have to go through what you have and to write about it in such a strong and beautiful way. Truly inspiring.
I lost my grandmother to lung cancer when I was 17. She was like a mother to me. It was devastating to me and the entire famliy. My boyfriend just lost a cousin and is losing a brother. A younger brother of mine might have melanoma. I have had two scares myself (cerivcal and esophagus, at only 30 years old!) My body has started healing before the cancer developed. Now it will just mean watching and hoping for the rest of my life. I am determined to live my life healthy and not give it a thought between checkups. And I am going to support my boyfriend and our brothers as best I can. This has helped give me the strength to do that. Thank you.
Hi Dana, I could so relate. You know how to find me if you need a shoulder. I'll keep you in mind also!:)
I AHVE HAD CANCER SINCE 2002 THYROID CANCER IT WENT TO MY LUNGS HOWEVER I REFUSED TO TAKE TREATMENTS I USED ORGANIC FOODS AND ORGANIC COCONUT OIL,HOWEVER, THIS CAME FROM A SUCKER PUNCH TO THE HEAD FROM MY EX HUSBAND THE XRAYS LOOK EVEN TODAY LIKE A MOUSE IS EATING THE BONES
IN THE LEFT SIDE OF MY T MANDULAR BONE BEING SUCKER PUNCHED IN FRONT OF YOUR KIDS IS NOT A JOKE REMEMBER SHOULD YOU GET BEATEN GO TO THE HOSPITAL CALL THE POLICE AND PLEASE PRESS CHARGES IT'S YOUR LIFE THAT IS BEING SAVED.AMEN
Wishing you good luck! Thank you for sharing to help others.
Linda,
This is the most important of all the *letter* Hubs you have written. Your husband and you will always be in my thoughts, as will the mother and grandmother I lost to Cancer.
Thank you Daisy! Your thoughts are appreciated.
Linda, my thoughts go out to you and your husband. I am astounded and humbled by your courage, your eloquence and your sheer bravery and thoughtfulness against adversity. As family practitioner who specialises in continuity of care and also as a local advocate for holistic cancer care every word you have written resonates with me. I have many brave letters in my desk from sufferers and their carers who have appreciated the involvement and the encouragement our team has given them. I also teach communication skills and palliative care and I always say to my post grad Doctors that their science and evidence base can only take them so far but it is their humanity, their perceptiveness, their understanding of holistic care. their ability to interact with the family and friends of the patient, and the willingness to laugh, cry and share the pain is what that will make them excellent clinicians.
I wonder if you'd give me permission to read this letter in my teaching lectures - ( I absolutely understand if you don't want me to) I 'll anonymise it of course so I don't break confidentiality- as this is the most erudite letter to cancer I have read for a very long time... the fight for Cancer is not just done with medicine- but it is the love, humanity and care of those close to us that binds it all together. I am truly humbled by your hub.
Hi Docmo, Thank you for your thoughts. I appreciate you taking the time to read my letter and I appreciate your message.
I wrote this letter for myself and for those who will benefit from it, so please feel free to share with others.
Thank you, Linda.
Earthy Mother Level 3 Commenter 4 months ago
Brought a tear to my eye... Beautifully written and heartfelt. Experiencing all this myself at the moment and the sad thing is it is becoming more and more common - they say 1 in 3 will get cancer and that truly sucks. But fight it we will. Your husband is truly lucky to have you on his side and the good thing to come out of having this disease is that it makes you appreciate your time more. Cancer sucks it's true but it can never defeat our spirit. Xx