It feels more like who hasn't battled cancer among friends and family, but I'll limit this to immediate family. In 1996, my future wife, Sandy, was diagnosed with a very rare form of cervical cancer. Her doctor recommended a specialist in Seattle. The surgery "got it all," no indication it had spread, so no chemo or radiation follow-up (the potential benefit didn't outweigh the risks). Win!
In 2005, Sandy's daughter had a mole removed: melanoma. And it had spread. Her treatment choices: 1) A year of interferon, with side effects that include depression and possibly suicidal tendencies, or 2) A new nine-week protocol so brutal it is only for people under 40. Candi opted for the nine-week protocol. Her thoughts: "I have a family, a full-time job, and I'm finishing my PhD. I don't have a year to be sick." My wife took leave to help Candi and family for the duration. Her follow-ups have shown "No recurrence." Win!
In March 2008, Sandy had a nagging cough. Exams revealed "metastatic cancer in the lungs, primary cancer unknown." During Sandy's 21 months of palliative treatments (six chemo and two radiation protocols) her battle cry was, "I won't let the worries of tomorrow rob me of the joys of today." Each protocol had different side effects, some severe, some mild. Each evaluation delivered the same message, "Some response to treatment, but also some progression." Tie.
In November 2009, my stepmother called, "Pop has lung cancer." We discussed our mutual challenges and frustration that we couldn't "be there for each other." By January 2010, the doctors had diagnosed a very aggressive cancer; no approved treatments in the U.S. He took a sudden turn for the worse and passed away March 4, 2010. Loss.
Also in late January 2010, Sandy deteriorated dramatically. We met with hospice, and through their efforts had a care room set up in our home by evening. Sandy's daughter Tawnya, a nurse, became team captain. With friends and family, we were able to provide 24/7 care. The love of my life went to the Lord while I was holding her March 18, 2010. Loss.
-- Chris Wollam, Richland
