Cancer and a Conversation

This week I talk with my friend Courtney on the podcast. She and I have a similar journey. We both had colorectal cancer. Initially we met for a moment prior to her diagnoses. What we thought was a simple “hi” and wave, turned out to be a friendship connected through the most difficult challenge. While many of you know my story, I invite you to hear her story and our conversation around our cancer journey.

Let’s be clear, there were 1.9 million new cancer cases in 2022 alone. That doesn’t include spouses, kids, family, and friends who make the journey with those who fight the battle. We spent $208.9 billion on cancer in 2020 and that doesn’t even touch the impact emotionally, relationally, or spiritually. Everyone it seems is dealing with cancer at some level.

Here are two keys you will hear today in the podcast.

1.     You can’t do it alone.

• This is a journey that no one makes alone. You must have friends and family who journey with you. If possible, find a friend who is in the fight or has been through the fight that can support you along the way. They will have insights and encouragement that others will not.

• If you’re the spouse, family member, or close friend of a person fighting cancer and you are the primary care giver don’t do this alone. You in the fight as well and need support. Don’t ignore your own health and well-being.

2.     You can win the fight.

• Don’t think for one minute that you can’t win. Keep fighting. While others are focusing on your physical health, do not forget your mental health. The mental game is sometimes for difficult than the physical. Don’t give up. You’ve got this.

Finally, GET TESTED!!! It’s easy. It can save your life.

Take care of your health.