Hi Everyone,
I have been thinking lately about the struggle cancer patients have with not letting their cancer define them. I am particularly focused on this dilemma now, as I spend time and share love with my brother Bill, who is in the end stage of Glioblastoma. Throughout his illness, Bill has demonstrated bravery, positivity, and hope. He has not let his cancer dictate who he is, though the illness has taken so much from him, and has changed his entire daily life experience. Though Bill is bed-ridden, weak, and in pain, he will not let his cancer have power over him. When he can summon the energy to speak, it is to share a joke, or reminisce about so many wonderful memories we share.
I have taken my cue from my big brother, staring cancer in the face and putting it in its place. It is something I have to work at. I call up my brother, and my sister Maggie’s attitudes and battles, trying to somehow absorb their bravery, strength, outlook, and sense of power, no matter what their cancers have thrown at them.
Below is a writing I have hanging next to my computer. I read it every day – sometimes several times a day. It reminds me of the lessons my Maggie and Bill have taught me. You are not your cancer. You are so much more. Celebrate all that you have and are, and let cancer know who’s in charge.
‘Til next time,
MJ
“What Cancer Cannot Do”
Cancer is so limited…
It cannot cripple love.
It cannot shatter hope.
It cannot corrode faith.
It cannot eat away peace.
It cannot destroy confidence.
It cannot kill friendship.
It cannot shut out memories.
It cannot silence courage.
It cannot reduce eternal life.
It cannot quench the Spirit.
Author: Unknown