April 9 -- a date that will live in infamy. At least in my life.
April 9, 2009 - My now husband & I started dating.
April 9, 2013 - Diagnosed with Stage 1C Ovarian Cancer
April 9, 2023 - 10 years since my diagnosis, defying the odds? Why?
As my ten year cancerversary looms in the near future I have a lot of questions and few answers. Yes, the cancer was found early (accidentally actually). I had surgery. I had the same chemo cocktail almost every other woman diagnosed with ovarian cancer has with the first go round. I made it to 5 years . . . no recurrence. Made it passed 6, 7, 8 . . . no recurrence. And now - almost to 10 . . . . no recurrrence.
Why? I haven't changed my diet, eating habits, exercise habits, or much of my lifestyle. I have been diagnosed with more issues caused from the chemo cocktail I had. Things like - osteoarthritis, osteopenia, my gall bladder stopped working, 3 plueral effusions with no known cause, bifocals at age 45, and don't forget the all wonderful grief and depression. I have side effects from medications that I take to help some of the conditions I have from the after effects of cancer.
But why have I not had a recurrence? In the last 10 years I lost many, many friends. I have lists of hundreds of women who have passed away from this beast. And yet, I have not had a recurrence.
Am I begging or praying for a recurrence? Absoultely NOT!!!
I just wonder why. I know it's not going to be a questioned answered now or here on this side of heaven.
Until I get that answer, I'll keep praying for my Teal Sisters, getting my check ups, and keep on with the advocacy, awareness and education!
