Growing closer to my sister has been a GIFT!
One of the unexpected gifts of my cancer journey has been the deepening and transformation of my relationship with my younger sister, Ann. In many ways, my cancer diagnosis has brought us closer, shifting our dynamic from what was at times a primarily one-sided relationship into one that is now more open and reciprocal. This change has created a new sense of connection and support between us.
Our Daily Routine
Ann and I make it a point to connect every day, engaging in a brief routine that helps us both physically and emotionally. Our routine starts with a High Impact Workout—though to be honest, some days the workout is less intense, but the important thing is that we keep moving. The workout lasts about ten minutes and includes some stretching exercises.
After this, I do my jaw and throat exercises, with Ann always finding a way to make me laugh during the process. We close out our routine with a set of affirmations and usually finish with a five-minute meditation. I typically complete this routine before heading to the hospital, and it helps me prepare mentally and physically for my treatments.
Ann’s Reaction and Perspective on Cancer
Ann took the news of my diagnosis quite hard. Hearing the words “I have cancer” can be a real wakeup call, as we are all aware that in many cases the outcomes can be dire for those who receive such news. However, through this journey, I have learned that significant advancements in research and technology over the years have made a tremendous difference in outcomes.
We learned from one of the cancer volunteers that 44 years ago, 75% of people diagnosed with Terry’s type of cancer did not survive. Today, more than 75% of patients live. This progress is truly remarkable. I now know many people—even within my own circle—who have been diagnosed with some form of cancer yet continue to live full lives. Some are in complete remission, while others are not, but they are still actively living with their cancer.
