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Cancer silver linings
Some Diagnoses Are Unexpected, and Some Prognoses are Uplifting — Here’s Mine and Those of a Few Friends
We’ve come a long way baby
I was driving to family the day before Thanksgiving when my doctor called to confirm that I had cancer. Breast cancer to be precise. DCIS to be more precise.
She also said, “You have a wonderful aura.”
Which was heartwarming, and also helped me stay inside my “aura” after hearing the news.
I’ve learned through the practice of mindfulness to accept what comes my way with as much grace and humor as possible.
Most of the time, I’m kind to those in the medical profession who are there to help me. Don’t get it twisted, though. I also do deep dives into the procedures and options as I learn of a diagnosis. I try to ask intelligent questions. I advocate for myself, sometimes to the point where I change doctors.
This time, all the diagnostic staff had been warm and caring at Texas Oncology. I reciprocated. I’ve discovered that going into potentially frightening situations with humor and warmth results in less fear for me, and better care by caretakers.
