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I've been Blessed

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By TomMaloney

1 min read

I have terminal prostate cancer, but I would like to share with you how my emotional relationship with cancer has progressed.

Phases of grief with prostate cancer

Phase 1. Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression, Acceptance.
Acceptance is now so far in the rearview mirror as not to be a factor.
Phase 2. Peace, Love, and Joy.
I am so grateful for my wife and all therapists, doctors, and staff. Through their ministrations I have been given, and continue to receive, Peace, Love, and Joy.
Phase 3. Giving Back.
Using the knowledge and empathy I have gained, I have been able to make some supportive comments to other patients and care-givers. This incentivizes me to keep learning. Not much time for novels or Netflix. I get pleasure from learning.
Phase 4. Soul?
I no longer regard cancer as an existential threat. I know it will take my body, but I begin to feel that there is another essence it can’t destroy. I’m beginning to understand the concept of the soul.

Still fighting

I will still fight cancer with all the capability I have and all the help I can muster. But I regard it as a job, not an existential threat. I would be most appreciative of feedback.

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