Hi Ratface,
I am new to this website and just found your thread. Very inspiring, how bravely you faced your challenge.
I was diagnosed with Hodgkins lymphoma Stage 2B in 1986, Malignant melanoma Stage 1 in 1991 and last year 2 separate lesions of Basal Cell carcinoma. Have been through countless surgeries, 6 months of chemo, and 15 days of radiation.
One thing I can assure you is this: You will definitely have a greater appreciation for the little things in life as you move forward. And not let inconsequential things get you down.
A side benefit of the radiation - I didn't have to shave for 6 months, then when my beard grew in it was peach fuzz like an adolescent. 23 years later I have no sideburn on one side of my face.
Given my history I plan to take a large reduction in my pension when I retire so that my wife will have 100% survivor benefit. Likewise on her pension we will cut me out so that she gets a larger monthly benefit. Just being realistic not gloomy.
Anyway God bless you for making it through this, congrats on all the positive test results and take good care of yourself going forward!
Oh also I was a bit of a tightwad and now I find it easier to spend my money! Climbed Kilimanjaro this past February.
So I will be interested in 5 years from now how your outlook on life has changed for the better! Every cancer survivor I talk to (I go to Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philly) has told me that their life has improved because of their ordeal! Hard to believe now perhaps but trust me!