04/13/2024
My Relationship with Cancer
I have just come thru my 8th cancer scare, and 5 biopsies since my 20's. And again, I am cancer free🙏.
I worked in the field of oncology for six years. In those days, many people did not survive cancer. In recent years, I have seen the figure that 50% of all cancer patients are now living with cancer. My immediate and extended family have had multiple kinds of cancer. Some have lived, while others have not. One thing I know, from my patients and family, cancer teaches you how to prioritize what is really important in life.
I have also had the absolute privilege of working with cancer patients and their families in hospice, with cancer being one of the major diagnoses. I got to be a social worker, RN, chaplain, and bereavement coordinator. I cannot begin to tell you all that I have learned from my patients and their loved ones, and how humbling and rewarding this was.
For me, I believe in the power of prayer and letting others pray for me and me for them.
That does not mean I do not go through fear. I do, every time I have a cancer scare or a biopsy. But I have finally been given the gifts of reaching out for support and letting others be there for me. It has taken me a long time to learn this and that it is not selfish. And I also am learning the gifts of gratitude, grace, and guts.
So whatsoever works for you, whatsoever you are able to receive, whatsoever and wherever you are, it is OK!!!
Blessings in your journey wherever you are and whatever you are dealing with!
Carolyn Quinn