July 2015

When I sat down to start this blog about a few hours ago, I assumed that anyone reading this must know exactly what is going on in my life and, therefore, there’s no need to bore anyone with the gory details. I thought I could just get into my snarky posts and all would be right with the world. Oops…I was wrong. A little history may give some context as this blog develops.

I am a cancer survivor, and, at the same time, a cancer patient. In 2010, I was diagnosed with Hodgkins lymphoma. Hodgkins lymphoma is a very treatable and curable form of cancer – if you’re going to get cancer, this is the one you want (there’s always room for snark!). In the summer of 2011, I was declared in remission and went about my life. The following summer, a routine CT scan showed evidence of a relapse. The lymphoma had made a comeback. In addition to traditional chemotherapy, I had a stem cell transplant…the doctors literally killed off my immune system and gave me a new one. It’s a fairly grueling experience, but I survived and was declared cancer-free in 2013. Time to rebuild my life…I found a job that I love in a community where I am supported and pushed to be my best. I got a dog, Sadie. I planned a spring break trip to Disney World! I even contemplated online dating.

Then the other shoe dropped…in January 2015, I was diagnosed with endometrial cancer, or “lady cancer” as I often call it. The treatment was “simple” said the surgeon – they would remove all my lady parts and I could get on with my life. There was major surgery with a six-week leave from work to recover. By the time the end of March rolled around, I had enough of the 4th hour of the Today Show and I was ready to get back to work. Resume normal activities…the problem is, nothing is ever normal. Before returning to work, my medical “team” found more cancerous cells and a tumor in my abdomen. The diagnosis – metastatic endometrial cancer. The treatment – well, that’s a long story for another post! Stay tuned…

For most of the year, my go to drink at Starbucks is a Grande White Chocolate Mocha (iced coffee in the summer). I place my order and, inevitably, the barista asks, “Would you like whipped cream with that?” Sure, there was a time when I’d say no, or at least I’d pause to think about the additional calories. Then along came “the cancer” and no pause was needed…”Hell yeah! I want the whipped cream.” From now on, I go for it! I suppose it’s not really a conundrum anymore, but I like the name and I’m sticking with it!

So, a blog…for some reason, after five years of battling cancer I have decided that I want to share my experiences with the “Big C.” Generally, I’ve been pretty private about it, talking only to my family and close friends about the obstacles I face. But this time, the third time, is different. I feel like putting myself out there and seeing what happens. I’m not sure who’s going to read this, but I’m not sure it matters. This is something I am doing for myself.

More entries to come…