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What Cancer Did for Me
by Sandra Z. Bruney
I recently spoke to a Practical Nursing class at South Piedmont Community College. I was asked to talk about cancer in general, my cancer experience, and about our support group, New Beginnings.
As I walked into the room, I reflected that only a few short years ago, my knees would have been shaking, and I would have checked out the nearest restroom in case I had to make a break for it -- even though I had downed a half bottle of Pepto-Bismol before coming.
Yes, something had changed. I was no longer shy, nervous and afraid to stand in front of a group and speak. While I can blame cancer for an impaired immune system, thinning hair, a poor appetite and a host of other complaints, I have that same disease to thank for bringing me out of my shell.
It is because I have something to say and I believe in what I am saying.
These are the things I learned from cancer (not in any particular order):
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Everyone's story is different. Everyone's story is worth hearing.
- Be open about your experience. Your story may motivate someone into changing their lifestyle or getting that exam they've been putting off.
- When you feel yourself brooding on the chance of recurrence, give it to a Higher Power. I believe that constantly worrying about cancer will convince your body that you really want it, and it will oblige you.
- When people want to help, let them.
- Cancer is a wake-up call. Don't put off for tomorrow what can be done today, for you may not get another chance. Make that phone call, write that letter, read that book, take that trip, join that mission group, seek new friends and cherish old ones.
- Learn to say "Yes" to new opportunities.Try new things. I now know I don't like sushi, cilantro and chipotli. I love orange-glazed chicken, hot and sour soup and taramisu. I wouldn't have known if I hadn't taken a chance.
- Take time to daydream and reminisce. Start a journal for your grandchildren. Let them know what life was like before TV.
- Avoid negative people, situations and feelings, especially those you can do nothing about. Learn to say "No." Learn to get up and walk out.
I could go on, but I encourage you to make your own list. As for me, I am grateful for the changes cancer brought to me.
As I started talking, I wondered if I could continue for an entire hour. Previous speaking engagements had been limited to 20 minutes.
I did talk for an hour. I had something to share.
And so do you.
Previous Essays
Rules for Survival
Are We Making Progress?
I'm Just Fine, Thank You
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
New Discoveries Bring Hope
The opinions expressed above are my own. Write me at sandy@cancercant.com if you have a different view or something to add. |