World Cancer Day 2014: Why we can never give up the fight

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draft_lens17508351module162865204photo_1351983569I normally try not to be too personal on my blog as I understand there are certain things I can and cannot share. Yet today, I must open up about something near and dear to my heart. The fact that the last six months of my life, I’ve experienced firsthand what it is like to be impacted by a loved one fighting cancer. My family has been part of the startling figure: There are one million new cases of cancer diagnosed in the United States every year.

I will not lie. The initial news of my loved one’s cancer diagnosis was devastating. My life fell apart as I was buried in fear, shock, anger and despair. But one thing never ever left us after hearing this cruel news. Our love for one another and our hope that we would help our loved one fight this awful disease and win.

Today ironically enough, on World Cancer Day we heard incredible, amazing news. That for now, the cancer is in remission, something we did not think would at all be possible so soon. Although the news is the best possible, we will continue to fight this battle to the end and never lose sight of hope and gratitude for our lives. For that is the best we can ask for. The time we get on this Earth is sacred and it is short. Every day is a gift. That is why they call it the present.

One thing I have learned so far through this entire ordeal is that I am not alone. In fact, everyone I know has been impacted by cancer either by a family member or close friend. But the diagnosis of cancer is no longer a death sentence. In fact we have made remarkable progress in fighting cancer which is a cause to celebrate.

Per the American Cancer Society, 60 years ago 1 out of 3 people diagnosed with cancer would survive. Today, 2 out of 3 people will survive.

What if the entire world joined forces to fight cancer?

Today, Tuesday, February 4th is World Cancer Day, a time when organizations and individuals around the world send a message: Ending cancer should be a global health priority. 

According to the latest data released by the World Health Organization, an estimated 14.1 million new cancer cases and 8.2 million cancer-related deaths occurred in 2012, compared with 12.7 million and 7.6 million, respectively, in 2008. World Cancer Day, an initiative of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC), unites the world’s population in the fight against cancer. This year’s campaign will focus on reducing stigma and dispelling myths about cancer.

– American Cancer Society

What you can do today to help fight cancer? Color your Facebook or Twitter profile purple to celebrate cancer survivors on World Cancer Day by clicking here. For every purple profile, Chevrolet will contribute $1 to the American Cancer Society for every purple profile, up to $1 million.

For more information on cancer, World Cancer Day and support, contact the American Cancer Society’s website which has an abundant amount of resources.

32 thoughts on “World Cancer Day 2014: Why we can never give up the fight”

  1. Marianne – What´s to know? I am a ‘recovering’ criminal lawyer, EFL teacher, petrol-head, amateur photographer, neophyte blogger, traveller, English woman and shameless arctophile!
    Marianne on said:

    I’m glad your loved one is in remission, Nicole. I will pray for their continued recovery.

    It’s shocking just how many people are affected, directly or indirectly, by this terrible disease. I have lost a very close friend and a treasured relative during the past year. It’s sometimes very hard to bear.

    Reply ↓
    • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
      thirdeyemom on said:

      Thanks Marianne. Yes it is so incredibly scary. Way too many people I know have suffered from cancer. The last six months have been very very hard. I’m just glad it is in control now as I didn’t know how I’d make it through if things were worse.

      Reply ↓
      • Marianne – What´s to know? I am a ‘recovering’ criminal lawyer, EFL teacher, petrol-head, amateur photographer, neophyte blogger, traveller, English woman and shameless arctophile!
        Marianne on said:

        Hang on in there. I know it’s tough.

        ((((hugs))))

      • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
        thirdeyemom on said:

        Thanks Marianne! 🙂

  2. Simplesmente Avó – Graduada em Secretariado Executivo, pela Universidade Federal da Bahia, adoro viajar e fazer novas amizades. Atualmente, moro no Estado de Maryland, Estados Unidos da América.Tenho paixão por tudo que envolve a natureza, especialmente cuidar de jardim. Gosto também de estar antenada com tudo que acontece pelo mundo em todas as áreas do conhecimento. Espiritualista por opção, procuro viver e interagir com o meu semelhante da melhor forma possível, tentando aplicar o pouco que aprendo e amando a Deus sobre todas as coisas!
    mariaoleary on said:

    I just lost a dear friend. She died yesterday from brain cancer and I feel very sad!

    Reply ↓
    • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
      thirdeyemom on said:

      Oh I am so incredibly sorry. That is terrible to hear. A friend of mine also died of brain cancer right after the birth of her second child. She was only 32 and never got to raise her children. It is a terrible disease and I hope someday they have a cure.

      Reply ↓
      • Simplesmente Avó – Graduada em Secretariado Executivo, pela Universidade Federal da Bahia, adoro viajar e fazer novas amizades. Atualmente, moro no Estado de Maryland, Estados Unidos da América.Tenho paixão por tudo que envolve a natureza, especialmente cuidar de jardim. Gosto também de estar antenada com tudo que acontece pelo mundo em todas as áreas do conhecimento. Espiritualista por opção, procuro viver e interagir com o meu semelhante da melhor forma possível, tentando aplicar o pouco que aprendo e amando a Deus sobre todas as coisas!
        mariaoleary on said:

        Certainly it’s a terrible disease! I’m also sorry to hear about your friend! God bless all the families that have to deal with this..

      • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
        thirdeyemom on said:

        Thanks!

  3. painspeaks – Global Connector – Liz Hall aka Painspeaks is the Founder of Pain Sufferers Speak's Global Community of Resources with 10 support groups, 4 Blogs, and availability all over the internet. Lots of Safe Havens for everyone to painspeak, rant, vent, share triumphs, share advice, and more with those who live with pain and illness. Everyone welcome, no judgement, no criticism, and lots of voluntary sharing of unconditional love and acceptance from people all over the world! Our #1 Goal - You never have to be alone with pain!
    painspeaks on said:

    Reblogged this on The Daily Advocate By Painspeaks.

    Reply ↓
    • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
      thirdeyemom on said:

      Thanks Amy. It has been so incredibly hard. I am very very close to my dad and he is so amazingly fit and healthy. It has been a very hard journey but I’m really glad he is doing better now.

      Reply ↓

      • I remember seeing his photo you posted that you both hiked on Alps, he looked young and fit. I understand how difficult the journey is, I went through with my father. Be strong, he needs your support.

      • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
        thirdeyemom on said:

        Thanks Amy! I am headed out to AZ again on Thursday and am very excited about it. Hope we can do another hike again soon! 🙂

  5. Sue Slaght – Calgary, Alberta Canada – www.traveltalesoflife.com Many years from now, when I am an old lady sitting in the nursing home, I hope to be the twinkly eyed resident still entertaining anyone who I can corner to listen, about all of the wild adventures attempted in a lifetime. Well into the second half of the game of life there is no time like the present to get out there, live big and laugh a lot. Living in Calgary, Alberta, married to my best friend Dave for over thirty years and Mom to adult children; my decades as a nurse have shown that in a moment life can change completely. Passionate about social justice, volunteerism and not letting the phrase “What would people think?” or my own fear get in the way of trying something new; the possibilities are endless. Enjoy the tales and I hope you will be inspired to try something you have been thinking about doing.
    sueslaght on said:

    Sending strength and positive energy to you and your loved one. The gift of sharing one’s own challenges in life I believe gives hope and courage to others.

    Reply ↓
    • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
      thirdeyemom on said:

      Wow, what beautiful words of wisdom. Thank you so much. I hope my words help even if they aren’t always cheery as we all know life is full of ups and downs. Thank you!

      Reply ↓
      • Sue Slaght – Calgary, Alberta Canada – www.traveltalesoflife.com Many years from now, when I am an old lady sitting in the nursing home, I hope to be the twinkly eyed resident still entertaining anyone who I can corner to listen, about all of the wild adventures attempted in a lifetime. Well into the second half of the game of life there is no time like the present to get out there, live big and laugh a lot. Living in Calgary, Alberta, married to my best friend Dave for over thirty years and Mom to adult children; my decades as a nurse have shown that in a moment life can change completely. Passionate about social justice, volunteerism and not letting the phrase “What would people think?” or my own fear get in the way of trying something new; the possibilities are endless. Enjoy the tales and I hope you will be inspired to try something you have been thinking about doing.
        sueslaght on said:

        You are most welcome! I’m cheering in your corner and thankful for your honesty of the ups and downs. All the very best.

      • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
        thirdeyemom on said:

        Thanks! 🙂

  6. Pingback: World Cancer Day: Support « Charity Blog On Line

  7. I remember your getting this news, but, gosh, I’m thrilled to hear, now, about the remission. Thanks for sharing, Nicole. Blessings to you and your family!

    Hugs from Ecuador,
    Kathy

    Reply ↓
    • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
      thirdeyemom on said:

      Thanks Kathy. I feel like after six months I can breathe again. It has been a hard journey and isn’t over as he will always have it in him. It just is in remission for now and hopefully it will never come back! 🙂

      Reply ↓
  8. Jo Bryant – New Zealand – I was born in the land of Banjo Paterson, gum trees, and weather extremes. I am a freelance photographer. I love to make images that make people happy. To capture forever a precious moment. I am also a freelance writer/editor. I live in the Bay of Plenty, New Zealand, but still like to claim my Australian heritage. I graduated with a Bachelor of Communications in 2008. I am writing my first novel. I love to write poetry, short stories, and also write for the web. And there is nothing that is on a par with a sunny summer's day spent at Waihi Beach.
    Jo Bryant on said:

    I am so glad to hear that your loved one is in remission Nicole. We all need to remember that every day is a precious gift. I read this this morning, it made me sad to think it might be true.

    http://www.nzherald.co.nz/lifestyle/news/article.cfm?c_id=6&objectid=11196931&ref=rss

    Reply ↓
    • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
      thirdeyemom on said:

      Thanks Jo. I read this article too. Yes it is scary. I often wonder if our environment and lives is what contributes to such a rise. It scares me how many healthy people get it. But the good news is that cancer treatment has come so incredibly far. That is the saving grace. 🙂

      Reply ↓
  9. restlessjo – Hi! I’m Jo! Johanna when I’m feeling posh, Jan to my Dad, and Joasiu to my Polish family. A bit of a mix-up, that’s me. The one constant, however, is my restless nature. I love to travel and to explore our world. It doesn’t have to be the big wide world. I can be ridiculously happy not too far from home, so long as I’m seeking new horizons. Of course I have a wish list, and it was to help me fulfil my dreams that I started to write travel guides for a venture called Simonseeks. I’d always kept a travel diary, and it was hugely satisfying to share my experiences and to make new friends who shared my passion for travel. Alas, Simonseeks hit a few troubles, but I still find myself writing about my travels. I’ve become addicted. I’d love to share them, and to make more friends. So, it has to be a blog- right? Or do I mean- write?
    restlessjo on said:

    I missed this yesterday, Nicole, but now I know the significance of the purple profiles I saw online today. Knowing how very close you are to your Dad, I am overjoyed at this news of yours 🙂

    Reply ↓
    • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
      thirdeyemom on said:

      Thanks Jo. I feel like this incredibly dark heavy weight has been lifted off my shoulders. The last six months have been so painful. I know he can get it again as it is never cured but at least I know now we can beat it. You realize how amazing the power of family love can be. I feel so incredibly grateful for what I have.

      Reply ↓

  11. So pleased to hear this news Nicole, as I know first-hand the roller-coaster ride the family, as well as the patient, is on dealing with this insidious disease.

    Reply ↓
    • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
      thirdeyemom on said:

      Thanks LuAnn. It is a relief but I know it isn’t quite over.

      Reply ↓

      • It is something that is always there, just not something to dwell upon.

      • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
        thirdeyemom on said:

        Love those words LuAnn. Life is about living each day without worrying about the future or dwelling upon the past! 🙂 Looks like you are enjoying Florida!

  12. gallivance.net – On the Road! – We're Terri and James Vance - high school sweethearts who went on to international careers and became world nomads. Today, 65 countries later, we're still traveling ... and still in love. Check out Our Story for more of the backstory at gallivance.net.
    gallivance.net on said:

    Nicole, This is SUCH fabulous new. It’s a glorious day when you get that news, and I am so happy for your family. Wishing you all the very best, Terri

    Reply ↓
    • thirdeyemom – Writer, traveler, hiker and global humanitarian traveling the world and doing good. Member of Impact Travel Alliance Media Network. 40+ countries and still wandering sharing my journey along the way.
      thirdeyemom on said:

      Thanks Terri! Although it can always come back at least we know it has stopped for now. I tell you, the world can be a difficult place. WE’ve got to enjoy each moment! 🙂

      Reply ↓

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