I am new to cancer. Doctors started using the word with me exactly 30 days ago. I had only heard the word a couple of million times, but it was never said when looking me in the eyes and talking to me about myself.
There have already been 2 surgery’s to fix a broken femur and humorous, which were weakened by the tumors beneath them. In the last month I have had more hands touching my body than in the last two decades.
I have redefined the word friendship, while learning that we confuse true friendship with acquaintanceship. I’ve met strangers that have impacted my life in 24 hours more so than some family members I’ve known for 59 years.
Clearly, cancer can turn everything upside down. But here is how I won’t let it. My acquaintanceship with cancer will end. We will not hang out together forever. I’m all up for most experiences because they broaden us and we are here to learn. So my job becomes being the best pupil possible. Unlike school I really will do my homework this time and I’m sitting in the front row the whole time. But cancer is merely one in a long series of life lessons.
The most important thing I’ve learned so far is that I’ve spent a lifetime of not putting myself first. I can advocate for everyone else but become silent when my needs are being abused. Cancer, my new acquaintanceship, has taught me that doing life that way allows you to leave here early. I have plans to live until at least 97! Yet another reason why cancer and I will part company as soon as possible. The greatest thing I have going for me is that I see silver linings on all of this. I did not have health insurance from 41 to 59. Cancer got me signed up with MediCal. I can’t get angry at that. I have been learning the most profound lessons of my life. I don’t hate you cancer. Every time I walk outside I see other humans dealing with what I have and worse who are living on the street. How can I not feel blessed? The truth is I do feel blessed. The bigger truth is that it’s always going to be something you have to deal with. So why bother judging the teacher or the lesson. Better to be a good and grateful student.
To donate, get involved with or share please visit my gofundme Page: https://gofundme.com/help-Florie-fight-cancer
