There have been multiple opportunities to serve as a caregiver throughout my adult life and each experience have been beautiful, meaningful experiences in their own right.  I have also been in the patient role on multiple occasions with significant needs that required me to depend upon caregivers around me for support.

 

My experiences as a caregiver may sound similar to many of you reading this. In terms of caregiving, I was either directly or indirectly involved in the care of my mother, father, aunt and uncle over a span of time during their prolonged illnesses, which included hospice care.  Presently, I continue to assist my two younger sisters who have developmental delays and require ongoing support, assistance and direction as adults. I know what it means to feel both worn out physically, yet humbled and grateful at the same time.

 

My life as an advanced cancer patient covered many years and included multiple surgeries, chemotherapy and radiation. In 2007, I was diagnosed with Stage IV tongue cancer and diagnosed with Stage IV lung cancer in 2017.   

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I am deeply touched by the stories of other people who have fought cancer.  The journey has provided me with a profound appreciation of life and a renewed perspective on life and others.  We are never alone.