In my 30 years, I’ve known several people with cancer. It’s like I’m surrounded by cancer. Every time I turn around, someone else I know has been diagnosed with some form of cancer. All I can say is CANCER SUCKS.
A year ago, this past August, a sweet friend of mine lost her long battle with Ocular Melanoma, leaving behind her husband and 5-year-old son. Kelly was such an inspiration to those of us who worked with her on a daily basis. She lit up the room with her beautiful smile and beautiful spirit.
Through my friendship with Kelly, I learned about a couple in New York who were both diagnosed with cancer within days of one another. If you are not already familiar with Team Bond and their story, you can learn more here. Nathan was diagnosed with Colo-Rectal Cancer, and Elisa with Breast Cancer shortly after. Both are a testament to the power of determination, and I continue to be in awe of them.
Shortly after moving to California, we learned that my sister-in-law, Jamie, was battling Osteosarcoma. One of the first things that crossed my mind was “how is it possible that a 15-year-old can have cancer, let alone someone in my family?!” While I know that cancer knows no limit as far as who it affects, it really hit home.
These are only a few of the lives that have touched me with their stories. I know countless others who have had to battle cancer. We all know of “high-profile” cancers, such as Breast Cancer (October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month). But, what about the lesser-known cancers, such as Ocular Melanoma? Did you know that September was Childhood Cancer Awareness Month? One cancer is not any less important than another cancer, and they all deserve the same awareness. My goal this month is to help promote cancer awareness, for all types.
How have you been affected by cancer?
AWWWWW I HATE CANCER!!! I have been following Team Bond since the start of the diagnosis. SO SAD!!! I am sorry Rachel for your loss of your friend! We have GOT to find the cure!
Thank you, Sarah! Small world, huh? I know of Team Bond through Kelly and my photographer friend, Betsy, who is actually friends with the Bonds. And, you are right – we have GOT to find the cure!
My mom had stage IV melanoma when I was in college, my Aunt had breast cancer a few years ago and my Grandfather passed this year after being diagnosed with advanced stage Leukemia… and that is only in my family not counting friends battles… cancer sucks.
I’m so sorry to hear about your family. Cancer definitely SUCKS!
Cancer is a terrible thing. I have many friends who are battling different types of cancers, and yes, young people too! It is terrible and I am glad that the internet is making it easier to raise awareness. Blessings to you & those that are battling this dreadful disease.
Hi Rachel,
Thank you so much for writing this post. I also have ocular melanoma. This is an orphan cancer which means very few people get it, there are very few research dollars spent on it and there are only a handful of doctors qualified to treat it correctly in the US. I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your friend Kelly. Thank you though for writing about it since we unfortunately need to raise the “profile” of OM in order to get even the most basic research to continue.
Dennis, I am so sorry to hear that you are also battling such a terrible cancer. You are definitely right – we need to raise awareness in any way possible for OM. Thank you for sharing your diagnosis. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.