GREAT !!! Just have to be tested every year now!

1-2Years

Michael W. on February 8, 2010

I was Diagnosed with:

Lymphoma of the brain

Employment Status:

Employed

Gender/Age:

52

Type and Description of Treatments:

Surgery to remove 1" X 2" gray matter behind right eye. Followed by chemo (chop) & radiation then therapy.

How do you feel today?

GREAT !!! Just have to be tested every year now!

Since the diagnosis, what has changed in your life?

The only thing that has changed is trying to find cancer before it finds a place to hide that I can't beat it.

What is going well for you right now?

Everything is good. I have a part-time job for insurance purposes and own my own business the rest of the time.

What is not going well for you right now?

My part-time job is very demanding. I do not know if I am just old and have a hard time keeping up or if the cancer has something to do with it. But it keeps me healthy trying to keep up with the younger crowd.

What has been the most challenging thing about having cancer?

Keeping my business afloat while going to surgery & through chemo.

When difficulties overwhelm you, where do you go for support?

I did not get overwhelmed, owning a business teaches you to overcome adversity.

How have your long-term goals or life goals changed since diagnosis?

I try not to go at 100% anymore, 80% works just as well, also less multi-tasking.

What is your work arrangement right now? What are your hours?

I work @ UPS from 3am till whenever flow stops, usually between 8-10am. Then I shower & run my business. It consists of Garage doors & openers, welding, gates & we are now expanding into solar & bio-diesel & salt water aquariums & livestock. Then I sleep from 8pm -1am.

Since the diagnosis, what has changed in your work life?

Nothing

What has helped you continue to work the most?

Money & insurance

What advice do you have for others trying to work through treatment?

Keep a good, positive attitude.

How have you dealt with any side effects of treatment?

There were none

If "today's you" could give advice to "day-of-diagnosis you," what would you say?

Keep your chin up!!