Well here we are again. Today is February 24th and on this date in 2006, I received my official diagnosis of chronic lymphocytic leukemia. The week between February 17th and February 24th of 2006 was the week from hell; riddled with anxiety, anticipation, and fear of the unknown. During that week I was poked, prodded, scanned, and biopsied. And then in the afternoon of the 24th my new best friend, Dr. Stephen Shore, handed me my gift.
While I may not have looked at the diagnosis as a gift immediately, it didn’t take too long for me to come to that realization. Since 2006, I have been able to make some amazing connections, meet some extraordinary people, and work with a couple of class organizations as we all band together in the fight against blood cancers. And it’s for those reasons that I look at this diagnosis as a gift.
I also realize that my diagnosis date is not as significant as my date of remission, but it certainly is a date that stands out as having an impact on me. As many of you know, I started chemotherapy treatments almost immediately and reached remission within a couple of months.
When cancer first met me, I think it had an entirely different agenda and plan. But cancer is stupid, and it misjudged my character, my resolve, and the support within my inner circle. So now I stand proudly on top of a heap of broken, battered, bruised, and lifeless cancer cells and from time to time I glance down at the pile and with a warrior glare simply ask, “any questions?”
To all warriors, I remind you that we stand tall and we stand united. And to the warriors who have lost their battles, and to their families, I remind you that you will never be forgotten and we will continue to push on in honor of all who have battled.
Happy FC day.
13 Comments
Steve. Thank you for continuing to fight this battle. I know my angel appreciates your sincere efforts.
My best,
Adam
Holy Sh%t!!!!!!
So exciting. Such an inspiration.
My gift to you …
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R_RVId9OkgI&feature=related
“While I may not have looked at the diagnosis as a gift immediately, it didn’t take too long for me to come to that realization.”
Just think of the possibilities if everyone took this approach towards daily life.
Thanks for the extra motivation for my 18 miler this weekend.
I have no words.
I can only thank the Gods that gave you the strength of spirit to conquer your beast and do what you do.
Well said Steve. Keep up the fight. As I think you know My father died from a blood disease. My family has a strong commitment to this cause.
Thanks for your thoughts. Joe Berkowitz and Family
Peace n prosperity Steve, I come to your website often but I am usually a lurker. I decided I’d finally post a comment saying how much I love visiting your blog as I think your writing is both exciting and helpful. Keep your blog up-to-date and you have a visitor for life, glad to meet you,thanks.
Happy FC day ! We’re so blessed to have you! YOU are our gift. Love you! MG
Ethan….we got the ‘FC’ quote from you…. thanks for being so inspiring! MG
Thanks Steve for the inspiration. Diagnosed 5/07 with CLL. I’m still being monitored and optimistic and positive about the future.
Big Toe, RemoMan, you really are a blessing to us all!
You are the true definition of a warrior! I’m sure cancer was stunned the day it met you. Thanks for the fight in you to not only save yourself.. but many others taking on this dreaded enemy. I know my life is even better now that we’ve met.
Wow! We are all so lucky to be a part of your life and your story!!!!
You are truly a inspritation to many people! it is a honor and privlege to know you. Your words of encouragement have helped me as Rich continues to fight his battle. I wish you nothing but the best of health and fulliment of life..cancer free! You are doing what you were meant to do …help and encourage people!!!!