It’s been seven months today since my treatments have been completed. I have experienced many many things that I never imagined. I have met many other people along the way that have been fighting the same evil – patients, caregivers and hospital care providers. I have made some new friends, bonded by experiences that we never asked for. I could name names, but they know who they are. I have become much closer to Suzy, my wife and caregiver, than I ever thought possible. Reflecting, I suppose not everything has been negative, although it is, of course, has been an overwhelmingly bad experience.
Before I go on, let me tell you about Bobby (or Bob Juan as almost everyone, but me, called him). During my cancer in the time of corona, Bobby faithfully read my blog, commented on almost every posting, called me often, and was there for me. Bobby and Cathy were the first people we saw (outside the family) on their wonderful patio during the pandemic and again, after we were vaccinated. Bobby was Suzy’s first new friend when she moved to Arizona, became a close friend of mine and was the best man at our wedding. In late June, Bobby called to say he was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer, with just weeks to live. He wanted Suzy and me to visit him near Portland where he and Cathy summered. I had my second set of scans scheduled, so we couldn’t go right away.
Bobby succumbed to his cancer the same day I received the news that I was still cancer free, but before we could get up there. I think of Bobby (and Cathy) daily, and will always think of them daily, but especially when we have milestones in my progression through this cancer marathon.
Bobby, you were a special man and you will always be in my heart.
Cancer in the time of corona 