Community Corner

What's Up Doc?

Preparing for surgery can be scary and exhausting, so take time out to laugh.

Some of us were drafted into the fight against cancer. Some have volunteered to join the struggle. 

I never wanted to be a part of this group, but here I am. With every hug, every caring e-mail, I understand what a strong and special community this is.

I always knew cancer didn't play favorites, but let's face it, nobody thinks it will hit them. Carcinoid cancer knocked me for a loop, but when I got back on my feet I found I had support from an amazing group of people.

Find out what's happening in Larkspur-Corte Maderawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Thank you all. Thank you for your wit and wisdom, for your sage advice and for sharing your own stories. I'll take all that with me when I go to Stanford Medical Center on Wednesday for an operation that should remove any existing tumors.

I know the fight won't end there and I know I'll never be the same. Even after the tumors are gone, cancer will still be a part of me, for better or worse.

Find out what's happening in Larkspur-Corte Maderawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Those of us fighting cancer and the friends and families of those whose lives have been altered by cancer will have the chance to show their enduring strength with the Relay for Life, July 30-31 at Novato, and Aug. 27-28 in San Rafael.

There will be a "Mini Relay For Life Walk" at Northgate Mall on June 18, from 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. Registration is $5 for individuals and $10 for families.

Some of the best advice I've heard lately, "Take time out to sit down, drop your pants and slide on the ice." Let's face it, cancer is depressing. Cancer is exhausting. Cancer is a pain in the butt. But, we continue to go to the gym, we laugh and smile, and we don't give up.

There is good news coming out of Chicago where doctors are meeting this week to compare notes on cancer treatments. Medications are proving more effective in the long-term survival of cancer patients, according to releases from ASCO.


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