Being a Survivor
Yes, those words can cover a multitude of topics. Instead of writing, this time I’m talking about being a colon cancer survivor. Yup, that would be me. To date I have been in remission for 2.5 years. Apparently you are not allowed to say you are a survivor till you hit the seven year mark though. I was diagnosed in late Sept 06, surgery in Oct 06, chemo started Dec 06 and lasted through most of 07. What a treat that was. My hair thinned, I lost my eyelashes and eyebrows, I lost weight (ok good thing), and I can’t remember what happened to roughly 6 months of my life. (said very seriously)
But the important thing is I survived!!!!! I’m here to annoy everyone for another day/week/month. And speaking of days (see how smoothly I segueway into things (G)) This coming Saturday is my communities American Cancer Society Relay For Life. This will be my third year walking the Victory Lap with the other men, women and children who have beat this horrible disease. It is an emotional, gut wrenching day that I have come to love. The stories they tell make me cry, laugh and cheer. A local church honors us with a complimentary luncheon with tons of wonderful food and awesome desserts.
Then when our bellies are full and our tears are dried, we get down to fun. The auction. I love the auction part because I know that every dollar I am bidding goes to fund a great cause - curing cancer. And hey, who doesn’t love to get a deal??? I know I do. Last year I snagged a haircut, a basketful of hair care goodies, homemade greeting cards, free dinners (ok, I know I paid something for them), and hubby got himself an autographed football. Don’t ask me whose autograph because I am the least likely person to know a sports figure’s name or what team they play on.
When the day ends with the luminaria ceremony, the tears will start up again for those who did not make it. And for those who did. So if you have a chance, check out your own communities event. I bet they would love to have you. And if you happen to come to mine, you better not be bidding against me for that free dinner!
Till next time, take care all and stay safe.
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Patti,
I’m proud to know you as a person and even prouder that you are a survivor.
The strength shows in all you do. Here’s to reaching that seven year mark!
All my best,
Gin
Thanks Gin, being a survivor also brings out the rabble-rouser in me which you saw the other night!!!! With age comes loose lips (G).
Patti:
Everyone has to survive something - neglected childhood, self-destructive tendencies, self doubt, the list is endless.
You have faced your waterloo and prevailed.
CARRY ON, ENJOY LIFE!
Jim
Patti,
Congrats on beating cancer and having the great attitude about it. I am a cancer survivor as well - uterine cancer. Lucky for me it was contained and they got it out and I didn’t have to have radiation or chemo. That was four years ago. Unfortunately, seven years ago next month is the anniversary of losing our daughter to melanoma. Her memorial was on her 32nd birthday. She put up a great fight by entering an experimental program, but it just didn’t work. Thank you for all the support you give. I have been working along with entertainer Kevin Sharp for years to help find the cure. He is another survivor against all odds.
God bless you!
You are such an inspiration, Patti. Your post was so touching…thanks for sharing that.
Christine
Patti, sweetie, this blog only shows what I’ve known for years. You’re on he** of a person, inside and out — and no way was cancer going to get the better of the woman I’m honored to know.
Keep up the good fight, and kick butt at the walk!!! You’ll be in my thoughts and prayers.
As the old saying goes — that which doth not kill us, makes us stronger…
I have gone through many hardships in my life (loosing four children being the worst) — but I cannot imagine going through what you have gone through, and still remain the amazing, funny person you are.
You are a blessing to know!
Patti, what a wonderful story. I cheer your success. Next year, let us all know in advance when the relay is so we can come out and cheer you on.
Sue C>
I hope you know how glad we all are that you survived. What would we do without you. We’ll cheer you on to that 7-year mark and have an even bigger celebration when you reach it - and you will!
Well, the heck with whoever decided you can’t call yourself a survivor until 7 years have passed. Every morning you face a new day, you’re a survivor.
You’re a wonderful friend, and I’m fortunate to have you in my life. And being a rabble-rouser just makes you more interesting & fun to be around
You are a survivor! I think your fiesty personality pulled you through!
Hey Patti, great post. Last week my sister’s business partner celebrated 10 years as a survivor of breast cancer. It was a great party for a woman so full of life - A LOT like you. We’ll be doing the walk in October.
Congrats, Patti!
I, too, say count yourself a survivor. My son did Relay for Life at college this year. It’s a great event and you’re an awe-inspiring person.