KEEP FIGHTING!!

Almost 9 year stage 3 rectal cancer survivor, diagnosed at age 36. Endured a full year of preoperative treatment, surgery and follow-up chemotherapy. IT SUCKED!! I somehow kept my sanity and even a little of my sense of humor, regained my balance in life and moved back to my home town, a long time dream of mine. On the fourht of July I ran a 10-K in just over 42 minutes, the fastest I have run a 10-k (6.25 miles) in 11 years and even faster than I was in the years before diagnosis. My daughter ran the race as well and I run almost every evening with my son who is turning 12 soon. By fighting cancer with everything I had, I got to be a father, husband, brother, and friend for the past 9 years. They have been real life...not perfect, but a gift nonetheless. Every time I do anything I mark it off on my imaginary list of post-cancer accomplishments. Have ice cream overlooking the lake with the kids...check, see Niagara Falls again...check, Live life to the fullest every day (while keeping a job)...check. Keep fighting you new survivors and you olds ones. It is not an easy road and we did not choose it ourselves, but we're stuck with it! Live strong!