when you don”t lose hope
In December 2002 I was diagnosed with cancer. I was informed that I had approximately one year to live. This scared the hell out of me. I said NO WAY I was going to kick this thing in the butt. So let”s start the treatment.
I did not know what kind of treatment. My doctor said we would do radiation. There would be three-and-a-half-hour treatments. Radiation is hard on the body, but I was determined I was going to beat this thing!
During my radiation treatment, I was to stay in the nursing home at Fort Miley Veterans Hospital in San Francisco. My stay there was very pleasant. The doctors and nurses were so kind and caring. All the people at the VA hospital were very kind and caring. The radiation closed my throat and I could not eat. I lost 72 pounds but I never lost faith and hope.
I never gave up and had a positive attitude. So many people give up hope when they are told they have cancer. This is a “no no” never lose faith and hope. God will pull you through this horrible disease.
I have gone for my two-year checkup and all is clear. I have gained most of my weight back and feel great.
So, please, please … don”t give up! Stay with me and fight this thing. If you need someone to talk to please call me at 994-3262.
Bill McClerkin
Clearlake
