I had no warning that I was ill. I had no symptoms until just months before my diagnosis and yet, I evidently had colon cancer for quite some time. My surgeon estimated that it had likely started about 10 years before, based on the amount of cancer he found. My prognosis was poor so I did not expect to live for more than about 2 years.
I started Mysemicolonstory as a way to keep my family and friends up-to-date on what was going on. Using a blog allowed me to communicate what I could when I could and alleviated the need for others to call or email. Often, as a friend or family member of someone who is ill, it is difficult to know when to call or what to say. Each person has their own comfort level with cancer and with other people’s privacy. The blog is my way of sharing information in a way that hopefully eases the discomfort of trying to figure that out.
In addition, I have two teenage children. By journaling, I could leave behind a record of what went on during this rather difficult time of life. In future years, they might be able to look back on Mysemicolonstory with a different perspective as they mature and develop their own perspective on the impact of cancer on their lives.
My cancer journey has reinforced for me the philosophy that, when times get tough, just keep moving forward. Put one foot ahead of the other every day. Cancer makes everything more difficult. There are some very difficult days. But, there are also some really great days. My appreciation for the good days is far greater than it ever was before and my patience with the bad ones is much deeper.
Since starting this blog, I have found the act of journaling to be very therapeutic. Putting my thoughts and experiences down in writing helps me to better understand and cope with all of the change that comes with a cancer diagnosis. And besides, I like to write.
