July 11, 2006 - Day 7 - Week 14 - Journals

When in a low place in one’s life, therapists and friends will often encourage the writing of a journal.  Therapeutic at the very least, putting one’s thoughts on paper becomes for many a personal insight into the obvious about one’s life.  Once the reality of where we are on the journey is owned then steps can be taken to re-enforce good behavior or find new paths for the next phase of our life.  Journal writing is an age old valued exercise, yet like everything else few take advantage of its restorative powers.

Medical doctors are not all cut from the same piece of cloth and each has their own methodology for helping us heal or stay well.  My doctor suggested The Kreitler Compact might be of value to others as well as me.  What I have discovered is that many cancer patients are prone to wanting to tell their story in some fashion, whether anyone reads the journal or not is immaterial.

I have read several on-line offerings, some quite touching, all heartfelt, and a few that are forgettable. I ran across one from Betty that I share because it genuinely reflects what many face with cancer today.

“Hi everyone:  Two months ago I was diagnosed with lymphoma (there are 30 different kinds)  On hearing the news, many people said, “Oh, lymphoma is very treatable.” The doctors decided I have particularly stubborn kind – mantle cell lymphoma (sound familiar? Only 3000 new cases of MCL each year) But, I am stubborn too – from good British stock.  We learned that statistically regular chemo would give me a 20% chance of survival.  I don’t think of myself as a statistic, but even so, we thought we could do better.  Then we learned at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston Texas has been pioneering some very aggressive chemo combinations with much better results.

I am keeping a journal because it is very helpful to me. Expressing my thoughts and feelings is supposed to assist the medical treatments. We arrived in Houston last night, and met with my oncologist this morning to discuss my treatment.  Everything is going well.  I am so ready for this. I have been reading the books, listening to the tapes and feeling very prepared.  I am feeling relaxed and positive.

This morning I made up my mind to make the first move.  I decided I didn’t want to have much hair to lose, so I had it cut.  Look at it this way – if I change my about chemotherapy, I already have the “buzz cut” and can join the marines.

Well I must go now.  We’re going to the movies tonight.  We’re going to see “My Big Fat Greek Wedding,” working on the premise that laughter heals.  Love, Betty”

I do not know Betty, but who can not help but admire her philosophy. She is right on target on so many levels, and laughter a day keeps the suffering at bay.

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