Husbands

Another husband
I've been posting about my wife's cancer for 5 years on this board. She's not one to do much online, but I've received (we've received) both good advice and much support from the people on this discussion board.

Despite the tremendous difficulties we've faced in trying to beat ovarian cancer, it has helped our relationship and our faith in unexpected ways. Just 3 weeks ago my wife was informed that her third go-round of ovarian was complete, the chemo having worked its vicious wonders. She is now trying to recover from the side effects.

Back in 2005 when I heard she had cancer I thought right away she would die. I thought it again in 2007 when the cancer came back and it leveled her emotionally. That was the toughest time of my entire life. Plus I lost my job at the same time.

This time around...we were more resolute, pragmatic and patient. We "took care of business" with health insurance (through a stressful fight with my former employer to get Illinois continuance) and fought together through the treatments and fatigue.

It's been a difficult time, but enlightening too. I'm sure you understand already the fear ovarian can bring, yet also the fortitude it calls you to give. I'm more than willing to discuss (cudworth@comcast.net) and wish you well in your journey. Have faith. Try to have patience. But most of all love her and forgive yourself if not everything goes perfectly.

God Bless. Chris (and Linda)

Pythiaschad said:

Good to hear
John and Chris,

Great to hear from other husbands. I know that I am not alone but it feels good to hear from others. This is my wife's second bout with cancer. It really just seems to be the same because she was in remission for just about one month. This time I fear more that I might lose her but I haven't given in to it. I believe that she will be with me for so much longer just from the fact that so many women do survive for a long time. The fear is biggest when she doesn't have a very good appetite. Not eating can't be very good. I hope to hear from other guys and hear their stories too.

God Bless you too, and tell your wives to "Fight Like a Girl":)

Hi Guys
Good to hear from
Hi Guys

Good to hear from you both I have not had the unfortunate circumstance of dealing with this horrible disease a second time, I cant imagine how both of you and your wives must feel knowing you have to go through it all over again. Hang in being the caregiver is so hard especially at an age you presume this should not even be a thought for a number of years. The one thing I do try and remind myself is it could be worse and some folks do have it worse than us.

I find it very hard in dealing with my wife's emotions and not being able to do a damn thing for her, right now she is feeling totally useless and a burden on us all. Hang in there and stay strong.

All the best
John