Sunday, September 16, 2012

Old Age isn't for sissies....but neither is Metastatic Cancer

I've been visiting family out west....and with that, means I have been in contact with a lot of octogenarians and nonagenarians.   I have to admit, sometimes I struggle.  Why?  Well, a frequent refrain runs like this:  "These are supposed  to be the golden years? HAH!";  "I never thought growing old would be this way.";  "Old age ain't for sissies."  and more.

Sometimes it is all I can do not to blurt out "But I'd welcome the chance to grow old!"  Or...."At least you have been able to see your children and in some cases your grandchildren grow up and be married."

Instead, I smile sweetly and nod my head.  "Those aches and pains are tough, aren't they?  I know just how you feel because I have the same trouble walking."  Or something.....or not.

Quite often life doesn't turn out like you envision it....in fact, I think it is rather a surprise when anything you envision turns out that way at all.  For a metastatic cancer patient, we don't know what is around the corner, and it can be nerve wracking.

Cancer isn't for sissies.  We're a pretty strong group who faces it down.....or even when it does wiggle around and surprise us and takes away our general good nature...we are still here.  Sometimes I think we often surprise ourselves with how strong we can be, if we let ourselves.  Be strong, and treat yourselves well.  You are stronger than you think.

3 comments:

  1. Your point is well taken. I'll be sharing your post. I started a Mets Monday thing on Facebook, so feel free to stop by, anytime of course. Thanks for writing this. Growing old is a blessing for sure isn't it?

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  2. Thank you for sharing from your heart. Good luck in your battle.

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  3. I welcome each birthday. I did so even before the ACS took it as their rallying cry. I do admit sometimes I feel awful for thinking this way, but it is just a perspective. The pains, aches and struggles of growing old are not pleasant either....but boy I'd like to take a crack at it.

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