Cancer Chronicles

Hard things I’ve had to do hard things before cancer, but I haven’t always done them well. Here’s one example. I have a genetic condition called epidermolysis bullosa simplex in which the layers of my skin don’t stick together correctly. Friction or heat often create blisters, especially on my hands and feet.  As a kid, normal activities like walking to school or playing outside could be really painful.  I often did what I wanted to despite the blisters (like a 12-hour dance marathon in high school) but over time I avoided more things that would have painful consequences.  I knew I was missing out but sometimes it was easier and safer to sit on the sidelines.  Unfortunately, that became a part of my life pattern. Shy away from things that might be painful, engage tentatively, do what seems easy and painless. That strategy worked to a point but didn’t provide a lot of traction for creating a meaningful life. And it didn’t prepare me for dealing with hard things I ...

This is a running list of the things I have been learning from my experience with cancer. Some I'll write more about and some I won't .  Some you may want to comment on.   1.      You can wash one hand but you make a mess doing it. (I learned this after having one arm in a brace that I couldn't get wet for three weeks.) 2.      The power of the human body to learn and adapt to change is stunning.   3.      For the most part, people genuinely want to help and bless each other. 4.      The fact that I need something does not create an obligation for anyone else to meet that need. 5.      Gratitude is strong medicine. 6.      The degree to which we have learned grace shows up most clearly when we are not at our best. 7.      Cancer may be limited, but if it hits you better take it seriously. 8.   ...

Why am I doing this? I have to confess this blog wasn’t initially my idea.   It was suggested by several friends, but chiefly inspired by my good friend Kris Kristensen who is fighting a life-changing battle with cancer.   After emergency surgery to remove his left leg and pelvis, and more surgeries due to  infections like  C-diff, he found his life changed dramatically overnight.   He started a blog to keep family and friends updated on his progress and found  that writing was cathartic.   When he and I spoke about my recent experiences he encouraged me to write and to share what I wrote with others.      Despite his encouragement the thought of writing about my experiences was intimidating. Could I put thoughts about my experiences in writing in a way that would express them adequately? Even if I could, why would anyone else find them worth reading?   What could I say that might be helpful or a blessing for someone else? ...