Blogs
'Cancer Ghosting' Is an Unfortunate Reality
Losing my breasts was hard, but losing one of my best friends was even harder, and something I’ve had to come to terms with.
Finding Our Purpose After Cancer
Here are four ways I found purpose in my life after being diagnosed with cancer.
A Small, Inspiring Bushy-Tailed Visitor as a Distraction From Cancer
When my wife was going through cancer treatments, she sometimes would color my artwork as a distraction. Here’s an activity I made for other survivors, now that it’s the year of the rabbit.
She With Lynch Syndrome
I recently met another woman with Lynch syndrome, the same hereditary cancer syndrome that I have, and it made me reflect on the steps I was taking to maintain my health.
How I Comforted My Friend Dying of Cancer
My friend, Kevin, was like a brother to me, so I cursed cancer when he died, yet am thankful for the time that we had together.
Friends Carry Us Through Cancer and Other Tough Times
My family is scattered throughout the country, so I often rely on friends to lend a helping hand.
I’m Embracing Enhertu in 2023
Last month, I learned that the treatment for my metastatic breast cancer stopped working, but was thrilled to learn about Enhertu — a new drug for a new subset of patients with breast cancer — as the next line of therapy.
Cancer Privilege Guilt
Cancer isn't easy for anyone, but sometimes I feel guilty that my daughter had some supports that others do not.
When Memory Lane Veers Into Cancer Highway
Cancer is complicated enough while we are in it. How important are specific memories and details as we focus on survivorship into, hopefully, an old age that may bring natural memory loss?
Bouncing Back After High-Stress Moments While Fighting Cancer
My body and mind go through a lot before and after cancer scans. Here is how I bounce back.
On Cancer Relapses and Dealing With Depression
When I experienced an alcohol and cancer relapse, I fell into a depression. Thankfully, clinicians, loved ones and medicine helped.
My Dog Was by My Side Through the Toughest Cancer Days, and Now I’m Returning the Favor
After I was diagnosed with cancer, some people “ghosted” me, but my dog, Iris, never did.
How to Regain Control After a Cancer Diagnosis
Here are a few tips I’ve found that helped me regain a sense of control after being diagnosed with breast cancer.
At the Start of 2023, I’m Reflecting on My New Normal With Cancer
Life looks a bit different after my cancer diagnosis and the COVID-19 pandemic, making me even more grateful for the people in my life.
Youth Taught Me a Lot About My Cancer
When I was asked to speak to a youth service club about my cancer, they asked some meaningful questions, making me take stock of my experience.
My Dog Helped Me Get My Act Together Before a Stressful Medical Appointment
As a cancer survivor, major medical appointments cause a great deal of stress. It took my dog throwing up to make me snap out of it.
Being Persistent Pays Off in Cancer Advocacy
Fighting for something I believe in was worth it, especially since it came to my health after cancer.
The COVID-19 Pandemic Goes On and On, and I’m Sick of It
As a cancer survivor, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect me and force me to miss activities — and people — I love.
Leaving Cancer Worry and Fear in the Rearview Mirror in 2023
In 2023, instead of looking over my shoulder to see how cancer has invaded every aspect of my life, I’m vowing to face forward. No fear. No uncertainty. No what-ifs.
Are You ‘Wasting’ Your Cancer?
I’ve heard the phrase, “don’t waste your cancer,” as a way to encourage survivors to tell their stories and donate to nonprofits.
Crystal Singing Bowls Were a Relaxing and Cleansing Cancer Therapy for Me
My local cancer wellness center offered a singing bowls session, which I found incredibly relaxing.
Lessons From Cancer: 5 Things I Learned Along the Way
Surviving cancer was tougher than my hardest days in the military. Here are some things I learned along the way.
How I See Myself — and What I Call Myself — as a Man With Breast Cancer
Over the years, I have learned that self-image is an important part of the cancer experience and can change day by day.
My New Year’s Resolution is to Embrace the Mess of Life With Cancer
As we enter 2023, I’m looking at life a bit differently, and will prioritize things that make me happy.
This Holiday, I’m Grateful for Wigs and Orangutans
I’ve been watching a YouTube channel about Borneo orangutans, and realized that these animals remind me of myself after cancer.
‘Inflation’ Can Have Dire Consequences for Patients With Cancer
From high prices in the supermarket to rising PSA levels, inflation can affect patients with cancer on more than one level.
Take Action on Prior Authorization
Having cancer care denied or delayed is not a harmless situation when your life is on the line.
Be Better Than Cancer Shaming
I recently came across a Twitter thread where people were shaming a cancer survivor’s decisions, forcing me to step back before reacting.
Cancer Centers Contribute to Patients and the Community
While the large cancer hospitals do amazing work, I am extremely grateful for my local cancer center.
Why I’m Grateful to Make it to December Every Year as a Cancer Warrior
After being diagnosed with cancer, my love for December is not just Christmas.