Hi everyone I will celebrate my 9th cancer birthday in July. On being diagnosed with a squamous cell carcinoma of unknown primary in July 1999 I had a pity party for 2 days then decided that this uninvited guest would not define who I was and control my life. I still have blood tests and scans and see my oncologist every year but I choose to look on that as simply confirmation that I am doing well. Cancer changed my life bigtime, I found a person inside me I did not know was there. I have since really lived my life, had some amazing experiences, met incredibly inspiring people, and learned some great life lessons. It hasnt always been easy and my life is now vastly different from what I ever imagined it would be at 60 years young. I have been a support group facilitor for almost 7 years, have completed various training programs through the Cancer Council and other organisations, and have just begun to do a Diploma in counselling. We can learn from and support each other through our journey and while I fully accept that having had an "unknown primary" there is a possibility that this little rogue may surface again some time, I think in the meantime, I have other more exciting things to think about. I also want to say that having been honoured to read the Relay for Life oath in 2002 [central coast nsw] the importance of being able to attend this event is significant to many of us for different reasons. We understand each other, we dont need to explain why this event is so special, why we are there, we just know. I love relay, it is my personal reaffirmation time, and even though I think they make the track longer each year - lol, it is a wonderful time for renewal and reflection while raising funds for the Cancer Council. Finally, I was told I would probably not survive 5 years. Hope and humour - yep - I will take them anyday. Best wishes with your continued journeys everyone. Lyn
