timothyj's Cancer Blog
September 18, 2007
| Going down the unknown road | Views: 300 |
It’s been almost 11 months since I was diagnosed with Stage IV melanoma in the lower lobe of my left lung (a walnut size tumor that lit up like a light bulb on the PET scan and a couple of smaller hot spots). Three years earlier, I was diagnosed with a Stage I lesion on the left side of my face and lymph nodes removed at the time were negative. I thought I was home free, but it was not to be.
Although I felt good at the time of my latest diagnosis, doctors tried their best to squash any hope of long term survival. They repeated the dreaded prognostic term that I’d already seen in the medical journals – “dismal”- and they pointed to survival curves that strongly backed their opinions. Eleven months later, with two rounds of interleukin behind me and half way through four infusions of an experimental immunotherapy drug from Bristol Myers Squibb, I’m still here and still feel pretty darn good. The tumors are still there, but the melanoma has not spread further. I put in a full day’s work and enjoy life with my wonderful family. Like most of us with cancer, fatigue is the daily demon, but I try not to give into it.
About six months ago, during one of my daily conversations with God, He placed the words “this good day” in my heart. And so I try hard to make today, and every day, a good one. Some are “gooder” than others, but they all have something good in them if I’m just willing to look. Someone told me long ago that, before your feet hit the floor in the morning, choose the kind of day you’re going to have. I believe that person was right. With the road ahead uncertain, the decision to make every day a good one becomes more important.
May God bless and strengthen each of you in your daily battle. And make each day the best it can possibly be.
Tim
08.22.08 - 
Thanks for your support -
That is a powerful first entry Timothy. Welcome to the group. Thanks for the words of advice. I sometimes get lazy and want to fall back into self pity. Need to stay strong and positive. ;-)
Looking forward to hearing from you. We are here to give support to all who come to us for help, It looks like you can give support to others.
“We need to take care of each other”
Sherri
Wow! Very powerful. I know doctors never give you any good news or hope. Obviously you are religious, I would recommend reading Dodie Osteen’s, Healed of Cancer. She has a truly amazing story. Doctors sent her home to die in 1981 and she is still alive. She includes 40 healing scriptures. The book only costs about $3.00.
Melissa
Timothy – thank you for your kind words.
I am praying for you and, if you would like, I can have the prayer group praying for me include you in their prayers.
Let us hear more from you as to how you doing.
You will be in my thoughts.
Your words are golden brother!
We are i this together and you are in my prayers!
Peace…from another Timothy