For those who did not know, my Father (who is no longer with us) was diagnosed with Lung Cancer around 2002. Unfortunately, he was a smoker. This is something I never thought my family and I would ever have to face. When I first found out, it was so much of a shock that I didn’t cry, scream, get angry…anything. I was just like, “what do we need to do to get rid of it”. That was my reaction, because I didn’t want to look at it as a difficult thing for my Dad to face. I wanted to remain positive for him.
My Pops was such a fighter. He remained positive even after having major surgeries and procedures from other non-cancer related issues. He went into treatments (both chemo and radiation therapy) like a champ straight out the boxing ring and he never complained. I was so proud of him!
The doctors gave him 6 months to live. They really didn’t know, but God did. God has a way of making you believe in the impossible even in the hands of those we do or should trust. My Dad lived well beyond 6 months, almost 2.5 years to be exact. After he had endured all he could, he passed away. I don’t even like to say that cancer was his ultimate cause of his death, but it did play a big part. With his fight, age, and decline of his health–he had given all he could. It took me a minute to get to a place to even talk about it. In my mind (even still) he is ok, just away for awhile. I know that he is in a great place and I’m so thankful for my faith, comfort, and peace from God. I promise I’m not trying to make anyone sad, but people need to know every facet of this disease and how it affects the person, as well as family members, caregivers, loved ones, and friends.
There are many causes and factors when it comes to Lung Cancer. There are so many people involved, things unsaid, information unknown, and education needed. I hope that over the month of November (Lung Cancer Awareness Month) we will all become a little more informed about this disease than we were yesterday. Cancer has way too much power in the lives of so many people. All things are possible and I have faith that one day this thing will be BEAT!
Let somebody know…November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month. Spread it!
Updated: 11/1/2013
Great testimony Art! Thanks so much for sharing, it gives me hope and more awareness! I’m loving your blogs by the way, so real & heart-felt =)
Shams
Thank you so much Shams! It’s so much we don’t know and so much I’m learning. I hope I can help at least one. I truly appreciate you reading my blog posts! Love you! xo