October is Cancer Awareness Month and a good reminder to pay attention.
I had been one of those busy people who didn’t take time to get things checked out when something didn’t feel ‘quite right’. In fact, I had a small growth on the side of my face, near my ear, but my hair covered it. It didn’t hurt and I ignored it – too busy with my business and life. Years went by. I finally decided to have it looked at and was referred to a highly respected surgeon, who worked at a teaching hospital. On my first visit, I met the doctor and 4 of his students. When he asked how long I had had this growth, I replied, “about 7 years”. He turned to his students and said: “You can rule out cancer, because she would be dead by now!” Now, THAT got my attention and I soon had my first surgery ever.
A few years later, I noticed some unusual spotting and decided to investigate. It was in October, and I had been organizing and participating in my high school class reunion. I looked for a gynecologist and scheduled an appointment. Lucky, for me, I found a doctor who was willing to take each test a step further. After the ultra sound, she said, “it looks fine, but there is a spot here”. And so, she did another test. And that seemed fine, except . . . Finally, she decided to do a DNC.
Three days into the new year, I received a call, “I’m sorry to tell you this, but you have Cancer.” Say what??? This time, there was no hesitation, and two weeks later I was having surgery. And I thought that I was finished. I had a friend who had the same doctor and same surgery and she was done. But, apparently in my case, several lymph nodes had escaped. Stage 3 Cancer meant an entirely different path to good health.
It would eventually be almost a year on this cancer journey. I had initially wanted to only do the ‘natural routine of herbs and supplements’, but fortunately, I had a brother with a background in genetic molecular biology, who insisted that “I be the gladiator and get in the ring with everything I had”. And so, I did it ALL – 28 rounds of radiation, 6 rounds of chemo therapy, as well as maintaining a healthy diet, receiving prayers and lots of support from my partner Francesco, many friends, as well being part of a cancer support group.
“I am grateful to say, that on this September 19th, I celebrated 7 years cancer free!
I am all too aware that if I had not paid attention, nor noticed the signs, nor followed through 100%, I would likely not be here.
And so, I implore you to pay attention, notice the signs, and when ‘things don’t seem right’, to find the best doctors and health care options to give yourself, or your loved ones, a good chance to share this earth journey for as long a time as possible.
You’re worth it.
With blessings and love,
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