World Turned Upside Down

The following Inspirational Story was taken from Silver Linings: The Other Side of Cancer, published by the Oncology Nursing Press, Inc.

Friendships are strengthened as we walk through the valley of cancer.

I never really understood what it meant to have your world turned "upside down" until July 31, 1980. I will never forget the doctor's words: "I'm sorry, but you have cancer." He went on to explain that I had malignant melanoma that had spread to my lymph system. I was in shock. He told me that he knew of no effective treatment. He referred me to M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, TX, where I underwent surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Because I had more than 50 malignant lymph nodes involved, my prognosis seemed grim.

I doubt that any family is ever prepared to deal with a serious illness such as cancer. Mine was certainly no exception. Although death is not something anyone likes to talk about, my illness brought us face-to-face with that possibility. We discovered that voicing our fears helped lessen them.

It has been 15 years since my last treatment, and my tests remain clear. I am filled with gratitude for this time that I have been given. After treatment, I wanted to forget about my cancer. However, I had a greater desire to reach out and help other patients with this disease. In 1984, I became involved with a cancer support group called Victory in the Valley. This group provides a safe and caring environment in which to share our hopes and fears. Friendships are strengthened as we walk through the valley of cancer.

I realize that tomorrow is always uncertain, but each time I hug my family and hold my new granddaughter, I whisper a quiet prayer of thanks to God, who has helped us through it all!

Linda Mae Richardson

Sixteen-year melanoma survivor

Kansas