Why We Need to Tell Our Stories
Advanced prostate cancer sucks. It’s not just the diagnosis or the prognosis. It is everything about the disease including treatment. There is never any discussion of the “C” word. You know, “Cure”. Weeks and months become our milestones. Medical science tries to slow the sand falling from the hourglass. Treatment strips us of our masculinity. We struggle with fatigue and depression. We cling to hope that the treatment we are on carries us to the next treatment coming down the pipe. Some of us don’t make it.
Sitting down with Men's Health
I was interviewed by Men's Health Magazine a couple of years ago. They wanted to tell my story as part of a larger picture. I was flattered and agreed. The story was never published and over time I forgot about it. A few months ago they called and asked for photos. Apparently, the story was back on.
They published it to the online magazine last week -- How Todd Seals Overcame a Prostate Cancer Death Sentence. I thought they did a wonderful job of telling my story as well as bringing to light the past, present, and future of prostate cancer treatment. I believe the story is worth the read.
Proud of my story
I have told “My Story” literally hundreds of times to all types and sizes of audiences. Although those who are closest to me tire of hearing it, and at times, I get tired of telling it, those hearing it for the first time are often captivated by it. It’s a good story. It may even be a great story. I lived it and at times I struggle to believe it. What I love most about this story however is the hope that it inspires in others. I love that it helps other men and their families believe that good things are still out there to be claimed. I believe that if my story can help one person that it is worth telling, therefore, I will tell it whenever and wherever possible.
What's your story?
My story is just one chapter in the book. There are many other stories and they all need to be told. It’s true that everyone likes a success story and in this case, especially me, but what about the guys who need to hear about staying in the fight when the battle is not going so well. Every story needs to be told. The most difficult stories need to be told including those stories about losing the battle. Those of us who lead the way can light the path for those who follow.
We all have a story. We all have different aspects of this journey to share. Don’t be afraid to share your story. Do not feel as though you have nothing to offer. Even if your story helps only one other person, to that person you have shared everything.
Editor's Note: Todd's interview with Men's Health was published on January 14, 2019. You can read the entire article HERE.
Want to share your own prostate cancer story? Submit one here!
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