Wednesday, March 3, 2021

12 Years & Counting Cancer Free

 


Yes correct:  Celebration.  Today I received my latest PSA results.  0.8.  Cancer Free 12 years, 10 months & 5 days since my last proton therapy session at Loma Linda Medical Center in California.  Its been a blessing to continue to experience life.  Thank all my supporting staff at Loma Linda especially Dr. Jabola.   I have had no side effects and have been able to see the world and take on new projects including my travels and counseling cancer patients at the National Cancer Center in Seoul Korea. 

When it comes to navigating life during and after cancer, it is important to recognize that no two stories are the same. “Every cancer journey is (that person’s) own book to write,” We have to be grateful for the good things we have.” Not all journeys end the same but adding the element of hope of adding more meaningful days, mentoring others even in one life is a positive influence in our world.  

If you have been recently diagnosed with or a family or friend impacted from this news their is a  emotional side effect of cancer is rarely discussed, leaving those who are affected inadequately prepared to deal with the complex emotions. Cancer survivors often experience ongoing fear of recurrence. Follow-up medical visits, unexplained pain, or even sights and sounds they associate with treatment can trigger bouts of anxiety and fear that are as debilitating as those that occurred during cancer treatment. There is a good resource to read here at Harvard Medical School "The Mental and Emotional Challenges of Surviving Cancer" 

Facing forward the diagnosis of cancer for me was a gift.  My faith and support of wife Tracy and all family's and friends have made for a good ride.  I expect to "Keep on Trucking"    Grateful.  Curtis

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