Although I am considered NED (no evidence of disease), I have to admit that reading or hearing that someone has died and cancer is the attributing factor can give me a quick jolt. A dose of reality, I guess.
Why is it, then, that I am a bit unsettled? Statistically, on this side of the initial battle, I am in the 67% - 80% of cancer survivors who should make it to the five-year mark and beyond. My type of cancer has a better chance of being subdued for years, compared to some types. That figure is for someone categorized at the stage at which I was categorized. Those I read or hear about could have been at a riskier stage, or they may have survived their disease for many years. Rarely do I know.
I sometimes wonder, then, what will be written about me and my life, should I succumb to this disease before the Lord returns. Will my life have made a difference in the lives of my family and of others? What would I want my memorial service to be like? Where would I want it to be held? What am I doing with the time that I currently have?
I do not dwell on these thoughts for long, mostly because I am reminded that not one of us has the guarantee of another minute, hour, day, month, or year. It does not matter if we are dealing with a disease or not. Our lives could be over in a flash. What matters is whether or not we are ready for what lies beyond the grave. I am.
I think that being jolted a little when confronted with the reality that is cancer is another part of life as a survivor.
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This part of November takes my thoughts to my friend Val, who lost her cancer battle three years ago this month. ..
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