Almost 6 years ago, I lost my left boob to breast cancer. Almost 4 years ago, I became a Ph.D. 4 years ago in August, I reconnected with the amazing Andrew Smith. Just about 6 months ago, we got married. 6 years ago I was facing surgery, chemo and a reasonable chance at a slow and painful death. The reason Im posting all of these things is that 6 years ago, I couldnt have imagined my life now -- my sweet and wonderful partner, the great kids that came with him and are now in my heart all the time, and the amazing Smith/Tran clan that welcomed me into their amazing family. 6 years ago I didnt think Id finish my dissertation and become Dr. Patty -- I didnt know the amazing 12-year old who would make me laugh hard and often, and for whom Dr. Patty is both a term of respect and affection. I couldnt even dream that Id find a partner in life who would inspire the adventures Ive been on... and who has been with me every step of the way. For those of you who are facing cancer, and especially chemo -- I have three bits of wisdom Ive gained along the way... 1) eat avocados -- theyll never taste better than when your taste buds are extra sensitive. 2) Trust that cancer will change your outlook on life and accept that. Treat cancer as a re-set button, re-evaluate your priorities, decide who you want to be after cancer, realize that when youre down you have no place to go but up and that your up can be like your before, but better. 3) Dont worry about test results you dont have yet. IF everything is fine, youve wasted time and energy worrying about nothing. IF everything isnt fine worrying will just diminish your before time -- because, cancer cells dont respond to being worried about -- so worrying wont change the results one way or the other. Dont do it.
Posted on: Mon, 02 Jun 2014 15:50:22 +0000
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