One date that we do know in this house is the commemeration of D-Day, June 6th. Twenty five years ago to day we had OUR personal D-Day when David was diagnosed with a mediastinal teratoma, a tumour that is normally found as testicular cancer but it can develop anywhere in the midline of the trunk, his was tangled up in his lungs so initially inoperable but the size of a rugby ball and doubling in size every 10 days. Without treatment he would have been dead in a few weeks - at 42. He had 9 lots of chemo, 5 days at a time on alternate weeks. After the 8th, in late October, the marker had risen from zero again though that may have been misleading and the previous reading had been too low. Anyway, the oncologist decided to send him for surgery but first she woud do one last lot of chemo. He said afterwards had the first lot of chemo been like that last 3-day one he wouldn't have gone back for a second. His mother, who lived with us at the time, decided he wouldn't survive and literally turned her face to the wall and died 10 days later. He was in one hospital, she was in another in the opposite direction and our girls were 10 and 13. Shall we say it was an interesting couple of weeks!
He subsequently had surgery to remove one lung and then later radiotherapy to mop up any possible bits. At surgery they found no living cancer tissue. And he has survived the big C for 25 years - albeit with another brush 2 years ago. That seems unbelievable too that it is 2 years since the prostate ca was found.
Hope is what keeps us going - despite the left-overs of any illness. Learning to live with them is key.
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PMRpro
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Although coping with adversity is a struggle at the time, I think it can be helpful when we face difficulties in the future. We can look back on that time and reflect on the fact that we did come through it- as you and David and your family have done and find hope in that. Well done to you all.
I too am a survivor of cancer- 23 years this year- ovarian cancer, which doesn’t generally come with a very good prognosis …… and during my recent “episode” / flare , when I was unable to get downstairs, I thought about the cancer experience and reminded myself that if I could get through that, then I could recover from this period too……………it is working!
Thanks for posting and sharing your story of hope PMRpro
Thank you for sharing your story . You say hope has kept you going , but alongside hope you both display fortitude, bravery , determination and several other qualities of character that have helped you endure your journey .
Hope is everything. But that was some harsh period your life and glad you (almost) all came through.🌻
Wow you are an amazing lady. I cannot believe how you coped with all that and with two young children. You really are inspiring I wish you and your family all the best for the future. Your story really does put everything into perspective and makes me realise how lucky I am. Xx
It’s quite amazing what we can overcome when we have to! I’m sure when you reflect on it you must wonder how you did do it.
Goodness me, what a story! Thank you for sharing it with us.
Can't help wondering if the stress contributed to your PMR? My shiatsu guru, whom I see every month, says that stressful incidents can be many years old and can still affect the immune system much later. Who knows?God moves in mysterious ways, and he certainly has found such a super role for you, and we so grateful for your continuous advice.
After coming through so much yourself, it is all the more appreciated that you can give of your time and compassion to help others on this forum. Very happy for you that you are able to enjoy this celebration today!
Thank you so much for sharing your family story with us ! I too have been dealing with the big C for the third time and now PMR. I’ve said from the first time 25 years ago that it wasn’t going to get me. Faith n hope, got me through twice, but it’s a little bit harder this time at 78. With your post Eileen I think it’s renewed again. Thank you maryanne
Ito am A cancer survivor 17 years this year and reading your message of hope has given me A much needed lift this morning, sending you and your OH virtual hugs of thanks xx
Thanks for the message of hope, there are days when we all need that and your story puts it into clear perspective.
Despite all you have been through you have found time to listen to my minor problems and to give support. It doesn't stop there, you are prepared to help us all and over many years. You are an inspiration to us all. Thank you.
Thank you for sharing this story and message! You have both survived many medical challenges and have come out the other side resilient and filled with hope despite it all.
It is often more important to celebrate these types of dates, than the other traditional holidays. Wishing you and your family many more years together.
Just want you to know how grateful I am for your time and knowledge that you give to this forum, when you have had so much going on in your life , you are always there for us all , and you have been a tremendous support to me .
I remember the words of the social worker from oncology , who was helping my late husband and myself.
Her words were to me, " always remember it's harder on the carer , than on the patient "
Those words are so true, it takes such a lot strength to hide your fears, trying to show a positive attitude at all times, and of course worrying for your partner. Forgetting your own aches and pains.
PMRpro you are a star. Your journey was not an easy one. Big hugs 🤗🤗🤗🤗
Reading your story was truly inspirational, you are a very special lady. Always there for us on this forum with help and good advice, my heartfelt thanks.
I wish you and your husband all the very Best for the future.
Best wishes to you and your husband. You truly are a special lady. You have helped so many of us on both forums. I am so grateful for all the help and advice you have given me And as someone else mentioned also your husband in his field. May you both share many more years of health and happiness.
Perhaps it is true that what does not kill us, makes us stronger. Every day you surprise me(us) with yet another side of your self. Good luck to you and your family. D day is indeed occasion to celebrate.
An inspiring insight into your life which can be used, and has, as a hope for others. Your combined difficult journeys have been used and continue to be used, to support and encourage others. Thank you for preserving and turning around what could have been a really negative force for good.
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