While many bundle up in the fierce snows and wind chills even in south Florida, the falling iguanas may require us to invest in more gear! No one needs a clonk on the head by an enormous creepy lizard with a long tail and claws when we are already dealing with other surprises in life. However, after a week or two, even down here, we begin to adjust. Why is that? Because we have all become masters of acclimation. Haven’t we learned in life that complaining doesn’t move the needle? The tough stance and bravery necessary for success starts with the first shiver of a diagnosis, but we are quickly wrapped in support, knowledge, strength and we confidently meet expectations everyday,

We actually begin to develop muscle memory quickly. You gather the necessary gear, adjust behavior, nutrition, activities and search for knowledge. Gradually, you become less bothered. The weather, travel, and commute are less threatening. If undergoing care, the side effects are dismissed quickly and you develop patience with each treatment and even find they are less noxious.

Take Amy- her triple negative breast cancer mets are met with a shrug. New treatments are on her agenda as she seeks spending as much time as possible with her three teens. Jasper’s son transferred from a University in Arizona to on line classes while he helps his Dad run the business, realizing there is no promise of time. Peggy is quickly retooling plans as more data shows systemic therapy is in her future following her colon cancer surgery.

Every single patient is plugged in and adjusting. As varied as cancer scenarios are, the common thread that binds and leads – no fear, just determination.
The chill these weeks is dismissed, the iguanas can be dodged, the trepidation can be avoided. You acclimate and empower yourself, because cancer isn’t all that you have, you choose more.

PS, As the Winter Olympics begin, good luck awesome team USA; show us what determination looks like.