I have cancer. I own it, so there. Now, bug off! See what just happened? For cancer survivors, like me, “cranky” might be a gross understatement. You, as a caregiver, may want to be part of my cancer journey, but don’t want to step on any landmines along the way. Who can blame you? But … Continue reading
The pandemic raging out of control, with 5 million-plus infections and more than 160,000 deaths. Unrest in major cities still reeling from the death of George Floyd. And millions of Americans worried about the looming loss of unemployment benefits and the prospect of not paying their rent or mortgage or putting bread on the table. … Continue reading
I pledge my unwavering devotion to your well-being. I will strive hard to keep you stress-free. I will try to convert chaos to calm on your worst days. I will help you find strength of purpose on your best days. I pledge patience as you express deep-seated fears. I will serve as your confidante and … Continue reading
My wife/caregiver and I (that’s me under the mask) were part of a caravan of survivors in Louisville, Ky., on National Cancer Survivors Day, June 7, 2020. The Lady Birds cheerleaders greeted us and the mood was festive and fun, with bags of swag and musical entertainment. Cars were festooned with balloons and streamers, and … Continue reading
Every cancer survivor can recall turning points in their journey, times when others smoothed the way, ironed out the wrinkles and were extremely supportive during a stressful time. I fondly remember receiving a packet in the mail between my diagnosis and surgery in the fall of 2014. It was from Norton Cancer Institute, Louisville, Kentucky. … Continue reading
After my cancer diagnosis in 2014, I mostly maintained radio silence. Close friends and family knew about my condition, but I didn’t utter a word on social media. I did attend prostate support group meetings where I received valuable practical advice. But I what really needed was for someone to throw me an emotional lifeline. … Continue reading
My life would be hollow without my wife and family beside me or my faith to lean on. But what else is so instrumental to me that it would be extremely difficult to go without? I learned the answer during my 10-day hospital stay in 1998. I was suffering from a serious bacterial infection. I … Continue reading
Ron Cooper 