First holiday season with cancer.

First holiday season with cancer.

Today I am at peace and grateful for the many gifts in my life. While I am not grateful to have cancer, I am very grateful for the people I have met, the wonderful medical professionals who go out of their way to help me. I am also extremely grateful I live in a country where quality medical care is available.
During the last six months, I have experienced an array of emotions, unsureness, and loneliness that were not pleasant. However, I also met all of you, men and women at GFMPH and at the PCRI conference. I also have found many existing friends who have PC. The level of conversation is much different when you talk to another man with PC.
I have so many gifts and those related to PC include the ability to learn, to trust, to be inquisitive and to be so thankful for those who help me on this journey. The ability to connect and share is such a gift.
During this holiday season, I have been reflecting on the gifts related to my cancer and am very grateful. So, I wish you all peace and a wonderful holiday season. I also want to thank you all for being on these forums and other get-togethers where you have helped me come to grips with my disease and options. You are very special men and women!
Peace, Denis

Denis you express yourself in a way I wish I could.

Please don't stop your posts as I find them most insightful.

Thanks all I count you as my blessings today! Denis

Great post Denis. My first holiday season too - joining the club no one wants to join. Great people here who are very helpful and encouraging! Vets and moderators here make a bad situation manageable with sharing their own history and helping us newbies get through another day of worrying and wondering what the future will bring. This experience makes you thankful for things that money can not buy. Time with Family, good friends and good people on the site. God bless everyone and hopes for a healthy and happy new year!

Very meaningful, thoughtful, and reflective post for the holiday season, Subdenis.

You have found your way forward since your diagnosis.

I remember when I was first diagnosed ... I honestly didn't know if the treatments would work ... after a few months, I turned the calendar to DECEMBER ... and I remember telling myself, "I think you are going to make it to Christmas time."

I just celebrated my fifth Christmas since diagnosis ... I have a lot to be thankful for, I realize ... and I can tell you feel the same, despite the challenges that all of us face, day to day ...

I want to wish you a wonderful holiday season, and a bright NEW YEAR!
CYCLONE ~ Iowa State University