Alan's Story About Colon Cancer In His Life

Alan

Nothing can really describe adequately how a person feels when he/she receives a diagnosis of cancer. Each person's story, though, is unique. Here's the story of what happened to Alan.

Alan recounted, "When I received the diagnosis it was very surreal for me. I always thought of myself as a strong guy, even at age 54, who never got sick, and avoided the doctor because I knew my body, I was stubborn, and didn't have a colonoscopy at age 50 because I didn't feel bad and figured I'd save myself the time and money. After I began losing weight without really trying, my wife became concerned and insisted I go to the doctor. A routine colonoscopy revealed a tumor which was eventually diagnosed as being cancerous. The doctors told me it was nothing to be concerned about. They would remove the tumor and I would need maybe one round of chemo just to make sure they got it all. However, after seeing my oncologist, I learned that I was in stage 3 and would need 12 rounds of treatment. I was numb. How could this be happening? It really shocked me....I have cancer, and my life was about to change."

There are generally many struggles along the way during treatment. Alan shared, "The greatest hardship has been the change of lifestyle to which I had become entrenched. As a result of the surgeries and chemo treatments, there are a lot of activities that I am limited in or can no longer do. I have to be much more careful with things I always took for granted, and have to pay attention to my body. The mounting medical bills have also created a financial strain for my family. We were already a paycheck to paycheck family before and now things are even tighter. I hate seeing how my sickness affects my family. Cancer affects more than just the patient. The loved ones pay a price as well."



Even with these challenges, many with cancer develop the strength to go forward. Alan stated, "Without question the greatest comfort for me is my faith. As a christian, I know God is in control. My support is my wonderful wife and two daughters, as well as my parents, brothers, and friends. I am surrounded by loving and caring people who won't allow me to stop fighting and encourage me every step of the journey. My inspiration comes from the Bible verse Phil 4:13 'I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.' I had support wristbands made with that verse that my support team wears."

Alan willingly shared a story of support and motivation for others. He is a manager at a local barbecue restaurant and many customers and co-workers know about his struggle with cancer. He related, "Just two days ago, a customer brought her daughter over to introduce her to me. She was probably six years old or so. Her mother told me that she had recently won her battle with leukemia, and she wanted to meet me to tell me I could beat cancer, too. It was very heartwarming and inspired me. If this little girl had the courage and stamina to win the fight then there's absolutely no reason I can't as well."

Support can be extremely valuable for those who have chronic illnesses, including cancer. In fact, the more support that a person has, the better he/she does, both physically and emotionally. What was it that stood out for Alan among his supports? He answered, "I have had several friends that have come forward and helped us, however, I have to say that the owner of the restaurant I work for has gone above and beyond. Alex Hill, who owns Dickey's Barbecue Pit restaurants in Covington, LA, and Sidell, LA, has been a godsend. He has given me extended time off with pay while I recovered from surgeries, and has allowed me to work a reduced schedule while I am going through chemotherapy. In addition, he has staged fundraisers for me and my family at the restaurants. He has accommodated our every need and told me not to worry about anything. A true blessing for my family."

How many times have you heard someone's account of their suffering with chronic illnesses? How many times have you offered to help? Even the thought that there is someone supportive around can give that extra surge of strength to someone who needs it. Remember, not every illness is visible, so we don't always notice the struggles of our neighbors. However, even such a thing as kind words, letting our friends and acquaintances know we care, can give others a boost. Let's all strive to be kinder to each other, and pitch in to help our neighbors in need.

Thanks for information from this blog article on giveforward: http://www.giveforward.com/blog/alans-colon-cancer-story.

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