A Survivor's Flowers
A dozen white orchid blooms sit in front of me. They symbolize survival. Orchids normally bloom once a year, but last year a gecko attacked the buds. I had to wait more than 24 months to see these rare flowers come out again. While that doesn’t seem like a long time to most people, it’s an eternity for those of us with small-cell lung cancer.
I was diagnosed with the disease in Tegucigalpa, Honduras when I turned 40. Treatment options for my inoperable tumors were limited there, and after a cycle of chemotherapy and a failed attempt at radiation, my family brought me to Florida and Moffit Cancer Center.
I was sick, frightened, and helpless when I first went through the doors of the lobby. I thank my family for giving me the strength to get there and follow through. From the first face that greeted me (Gina is awesome) to the nurses, doctors, technicians, and everyone else in this place, I discovered a bustling hive of healing and support. Moffit Cancer Center and my caregiver team of friends and family saved my life.
When I rang the bell to celebrate my last infusion, I still felt sick, frightened and helpless. A month later, when we ran the first scans and verified that there was no evidence of disease (NED), I felt less bad. Fear of its return wouldn’t let me be happy.
Recovering from chemotherapy and radiation is not easy. It has taken a lot of time, an immense amount of patience, and the persistence of my dachshund to recuperate my body. I started walking and moved on to swimming. Slowly, but steadily, I got more lung function back and reduced the attacks of fatigue. I found the mental strength and sanity to do this by going to therapy. Looking death in the face is a big deal, and my therapist has guided me on how to process that.
I’m about three and a half years NED, checking regularly to make sure it stays that way, and staring at these beautiful orchids that remind me that I’m a survivor.
Moffitt offers support groups where you can talk with people who have experienced cancer. Please call the department of Social Work at 813-745-8407 or visit the Support Groups page to learn about the support groups that are available.