I don’t hate many things but I do hate cancer. I am back at Cancer Care for an appointment with my survivorship counselor. It is crazy, but this last year still seems like a dream, almost like this has happened to someone else. And maybe it has, because I am definitely not the person who started this journey.

As soon as I turned into the parking lot at the clinic my stomach dropped. Not really for myself, but it hit me so hard because I am at the end of the treatment part of this journey and so many people are just starting their journey. I am amazed every time I go there – the place is always packed. I walked down the chemo hallway and saw everyone hooked up and getting the poison that will hopefully kill the cancer. And my heart hurt for each one of them.

I asked my counselor when someone is considered a survivor. Her response was, as soon as you are diagnosed.  She said, “Today you are cancer free and at 10 years you are considered to be cured.” So cancer free – YES – it makes me smile just to say it. I will have follow-up appointments over the next 10 years at Cancer Care; I will have mammograms every six months and my other annual exams. So I am just taking each step as it comes and continuing to walk down this new path.

Several people have commented to me over the last few days about this blog and my writing. I have been encouraged to keep writing and also to keep everyone updated through my writing. I will continue to update this blog occasionally. I also hope to start another blog soon – if my good friend, Diane, is still willing to help me. [Editor’s note: I am more than willing!]

I also want to update you on the little dog I found when I was walking in the park. The owner is letting me keep him. I have fallen hard for my little Freddie the Freeloader. His hair is coming back in and he looks so much better. I think he feels safe and comfortable here and that makes me happy.

I don’t think any of you know how important this blog has been to me. It was a way to survive when my world seemed so bleak. But it has been your kindness, encouragement, and support that have truly helped me make it to this point. I have tears in my eyes but a glow in my heart as I write these words. I have opened myself up to you and you have loved and accepted me, and for that I will be forever grateful. The warrior has returned – ready to face whatever lies ahead.