Chemo is a necessary evil. It is no wonder I was not looking forward to my next session. More specifically, the chemo infusion is not that bad – just a bit boring sitting there for 5-6 hours. It’s what happens in the days and weeks that follow.
I have come to realize the dual nature of cancer treatment.
In one aspect, it is an extremely personal, almost self-absorbed and self-seeking journey that only I am experiencing. This is my burden to bear. I have to endure the chemo. I will undergo the surgery. I have to beat this cancer.
But, in turn, it is also a shared responsibility and activity. It is a journey I can’t travel alone.
I am grateful for my family and friends that distribute the weight of my health challenge.
Just as I seek a cure, each of my family and friends are going through their own journeys…all are equally important, even if the level of effort varies greatly. What my wife and kids have to go through is very different than that of close friends and co-workers and acquaintances, but all is appropriately proportionate and equally felt and appreciated.
Everything that everyone has done for me gives me strength. From a simple text, to a phone call, to a silent prayer or casual thought. Everything is helping me “crush that cancer!”
I need to throw a special call out to my friend Zack, from work, who took out time from leading national security space policy work to spend some time with me during my latest chemo infusion. He didn’t have to. He wanted to show his support. I will be forever grateful for his time and care.
Though I am often alone in my suffering and healing. I am strengthened in my support network that literally spans the globe, but is always an arms length away.
To all of you, you will always have my eternal friendship and loyalty!
Twentythree/5 