The most recent set of films showed that my cancer was growing again, so I went back on chemo today after an eight-week break. Not exactly fun, but not the worst thing in the world either. I was reminded of that earlier in the day, and reminded again how hard it is to feel sorry for oneself at a cancer center: I saw a child (she looked to be about 12-13 years old) who is here for treatment, and is obviously in worse shape than I’m in. It broke my heart to see her that way, and to think of the grief her parents must be going through. It also impressed me to see how kindly the doctors and nurses treated her. Cancer is a supremely ugly disease, but when skilled and good-hearted people work with cancer patients, sometimes the disease’s treatment takes on a kind of beauty. Heartbreaking beauty—it’s a strange concept, isn’t it?
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Another Chemo Day--Stuntz
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Comments ( 4 )
Bill:
Thanks for posting - it was a good reminder for me to keep you in prayer.
Your brother in Christ,
Dave
Posted by Dave Lindsay | June 29, 2010 11:01 AM
When I was working as a psychologist at a forensic hospital years ago I sometimes wondered what was the point: most of the folks there were not getting any better and they were likely never going to be released. Even if they were, they were to be released into awful circumstances.
But I realized over time that there was tremendous grace to be had in doing what I could to make any patricular day - this day for instance - a little bit better for them.
And a warm surprise about that revelation was that it made my days much better. Maybe that is part of the character of grace: reciprocal generosity in the midst of bad times.
Posted by Steve | June 29, 2010 1:34 PM
Hi Bill
Just wanted to let you know that I'm thinking of you and sending good thoughts.
Best regards
Kate
Posted by Kate Wilson | June 30, 2010 9:40 PM
Hello Bill,
We're thinking and praying for you; hope we can see you soon.
Lois and Bob
Posted by Lois Andersen | August 10, 2010 9:26 PM