Does cancer become who we are?

Several bloggers have written about the impact of cancer on us. We are fighting to tell people, "I am more than my cancer." CURE recently launched a campaign, which I love very much, entitled "More than a patient".

I certainly agree and there are many other aspects of my life. I am a sister, aunt, friend, church member, sports fan, writer, reader, animal lover, speaker, etc.

However, I must admit that since my diagnosis, cancer has penetrated all areas of my life, positively and negatively.

I can not go on long walks because of muscle pain. I can not attend sports events with too many stairs. I am unable to drive in the car for long periods. Because of chemotherapy and cancer, I am constantly tired. I am deeply deaf to the chemo that I was on. None of this will ever change. These are just a few of the negatives.

However, I changed positively too. I was extremely motivated and work-oriented. Now I drop my job to spend more time with my friends and family. I do not worry more about every little thing. When you are given a time limit to live, these "little things" do not seem important anymore. I am grateful and grateful for each day I am alive. I cherish the time that I have left with my 14 year old assistance dog. I love it when my cat rolls on his knees and purrs, as he gets older too.

I recently celebrated a birthday and I am proud to be a senior! I'm trying not to worry too much about the money and what will happen in the future. I realize that every moment that worries me loses all the time that I have left on this earth.

I could say a lot more, but you understand the point. Cancer has had positive effects for me too.

Cancer is not what I am, but much more. I am more than my cancer. I am more than a patient. I was able to combine cancer with what I became. I know that all of us cancer survivors have done this and it is a remarkable achievement!