Is cancer everywhere or are we just more aware? The crazy thing about it is how really unprepared we are. We’ve accomplished so much- education, careers, families, hobbies and the successes seem to come routinely. Sure there are many challenges along the way but you learned to take them in stride with expectation that you will manage and move forward. We really do not have a frame of reference for this or any major disease. So often it strikes as we retire, or interrupts a new adventure. You know what I am saying and you nod your head. Ok Joanne, so now what? Well, may I gingerly suggest perspective? “Oh come on, this is a pain in the ass, and frankly I am a little frightened so don’t tell me to suck it up”. Ok I won’t but how about instead of “Ugh! now with everything on my plate, I have to treat cancer!” Change the dialogue to, “I get to manage this new threat”. For those who are family, ” I get to help, research, explore, support”. Don’t let cancer stress you into trepidation. You are bigger than that- look at all you have accomplished in this long and bumpy life. “Put up your dukes” and don’t let dis-ease push you around.

While you may feel as if the rug has been pulled out from under you, remember that the earth is still there supporting you. Lean into the light times and find new perspective to be appreciative and maybe even joyful. Take Charlie who is in his own words “An old hillbilly!” He is taking his disease in stride and his playful nature lifts the whole dept. “Doc, I’m a youngster! Get a load of this… my 100 year old neighbor mows her own lawn. When I was coming for radiation, she offered to do mine as well!”

Stay grounded, Stay in the game, like Charlie find humor. Enjoy today. Don’t be overly serious. I love Voltaire’s perspective: “The art of medicine consists of amusing the patient while nature cures the disease”. Trust me. You got this God Bless !