Things to remember… a lesson for all of us

“Sorry this is a delayed response – I have been away at the funeral for a dear friend that passed away from pancreatic & liver cancer.
I have a few comments that I would like to share regarding recent discussions:

1. The Kidney Cancer Association Patient/Survivor Seminars are WONDERFUL!!!! We have attended 2 of these in Boston. The one that was planned for this year was cancelled (don’t know why) but was well attended when we went. You have the opportunity to learn about cutting edge research, to meet other patients face to face and to talk to and ask questions of the leaders in kidney cancer research and care. I have posted about these previously and encourage anyone who can, to attend one.
Check out the web site to see if there is something in your area: http://www.kidneycancerassociation.org/

2. I have also read the discussion about stage of disease and prognosis. The statistics are just that – numbers – we have no idea where we stand at any given time in this disease. The numbers often give us unnecessary fear and unwarranted optimism because we have no way of knowing where we stand in the mix.

3. Having been a first stage support person for the spouse of the friend who succumbed to pancreatic & liver cancer, my husband and I had a conversation tonight about how important it is to “do it today”. If you have dreams or ambitions – DON’T WAIT!!!! And that goes for every person on this earth – not just for those of us who are dealing with kidney or any other kind of cancer. Our friend was doing great – her tumors were shrinking and then all of a sudden they grew with a vengeance and took her – in less than a week. It taught us to live today as best as we can. We can’t worry so much that we lose today. You can’t get it back! So go and watch a sunrise, hug your kids and enjoy dancing (if you can) Every day is a gift!!!!!”

Excerpt from Darryl’s kidney cancer website

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