It started simply. While cycling, I suddenly felt out of breath halfway through my ride. That was unusual because I always had plenty of energy. I knew something was wrong. The next day, I felt the same way. Instead of going to work, I went to the hospital. They ran multiple tests until they discovered that I had lung cancer. Hearing that diagnosis was shocking.
When the doctors explained it, they used technical terms. I asked them to explain it in simple language. They showed me CAT scan images, which clearly revealed cancer covering one entire side of my lung. The positive part was that it hadn’t spread anywhere else. It was contained in one solid group, and my other lung was healthy. That meant I could survive surgery.
The procedure was major. They had to make a large incision and remove the entire lung. I even asked if they could just remove the damaged portion and leave the rest, but they explained that the whole lung had to be taken out.
During treatment, I drew strength from the environment around me. It helped to be in a place that felt supportive rather than sad. The staff and the determination of other patients made a difference. Their will to survive gave me motivation. Without that support, I’m not sure I would have completed the treatment.
I have always lived an active lifestyle. I enjoy canoeing, cycling, walking along beaches, and taking my dog wherever allowed. Before, I could ride 60 to 80 miles in a day. Now I ride 15 to 20 miles. I still spend about three hours exercising, but I cover less distance. Even so, it feels good to stay active and continue doing the things I’ve loved all my life. That is what keeps me happy.
My priorities have changed. The people I care about—my children and grandchildren—mean much more to me now. In the past, I assumed I would always be there to watch them grow. Now, I’m not so sure. I might have many years, or I might not. I don’t want to know exactly how much time I have. I just want to enjoy life while I’m still here with them.
I no longer focus on how much money I can make. Instead, I think about how much time I can spend with my family and loved ones. That shift in perspective has become very important.
Everyone faces their own challenges differently. Each person has their own struggles to confront. Finding the right environment can help build the strength needed to face those challenges. For me, that supportive environment made a real difference.
The most important advice I can give is that life can still be good after surviving cancer. It can still be fulfilling. It may feel like life is over, but in reality, it is moving in a new direction. As we grow older, life naturally changes course. Surviving cancer is just a larger shift along that path.
