Why I am writing the blog

I realized during my first few weeks of facing the reality that I have leukemia and was facing weeks in the hospital having chemotherapy. By nature and experience, I am observant and aware that I could write about my experience and help others. 

My goal is to help my friends, family and others understand what was happening to me not just from the 10,000 foot view, but on a daily basis. I want people to understand the daily challenges and triumphs and not fear and withdraw from someone who has cancer. 

I also hoped that others would share my blog and help other folks become more familiar with the process of dealing with cancer so that they could pray, chat, email and visit friends and family members going through cancer treatment and really become their partner in the journey. 

Here are some things that I want you to know

1. The new normal is scary. I have now been through 4 rounds of chemo and found that I don't always know what tomorrow will be like. So as hard as Dawn and I try to be optimistic and upbeat, the fact is, we don't always know what tomorrow brings. So, don't disappear on me when treatment ends. 
2. You can't catch cancer from me. 
3. It might be over but it might not. At this point, there is no evidence that I have leukemia. But I have had additional rounds of chemotherapy to ensure that it does not return. However, it can....regardless of the fact that I've received the best treatment protocol available. 
4. Everything might not be OK. I know that many in my family and many friends want to say that they know that everything will work out perfectly. I prefer to think that way, too. However, I have learned that it doesn't always happen they way. Nobody "knows" for sure. 
5. Everyone's experience with cancer is different. I don't mind hearing the story of how your sister's cousin's father-in-law beat a completely different kind of cancer. But, understand that it does not necessarily apply to me.
6. Chemo brain is not just a funny excuse. Actually, chemo does have an affect on memory. So please be patient with me. 
7. There is more to my life than my cancer. Some days I really do feel lousy. But, I can and do work lots of days and pursue many other interests and activities even while I might be in the hospital. So, I am still pretty much the same person I always was and enjoy talking about the things we enjoy and have in common. 
8. Life with cancer is an emotional roller-coaster. So, yes, you might find me excited and optimistic one day and trying to hide disappointment the next. 
9. You are more important that you might think. I treasure the cards, phone calls, emails and Facebook comments from you more than you can imagine. They often are just the boost I need when I am feeling a bit down or sorry for myself.
10. Learn from me. I hope that one take-away is that you live your life like tomorrow could be turned upside down by an accident, a health crisis or even an event totally out of your control.