Hi Hugh, interesting questions, did writing give me back some control? Probably, though not the kind of control I want or need. When I write it is often a cathartic exercise - a diary of sorts, but more specific and less juvenile. I like words and I like being able to manipulate them and make them do what I want, so I suppose there is an element of control there. You said something about shadows too - I feel like my medical history has cast a large shadow over my life for sure, but occassionally I can write about other things, like my one about the art teacher with the fat wife and delinquent son. As I am posting these on a "cancer site" I was trying to stick to relevant pieces. Anyway, thanks for your comment, hope you have a good day. ... View more

Thank you. ... View more

No don't worry - I wrote that when I was having treatment, the "being pushed back down' is in reference to another issue (I suffered from depression for many years during high school). ... View more

Yes! ... View more

Hi again Harker, You write with a refreshing honesty and I enjoy reading your thoughts about 'living with it' and 'remission' - And I have to agree with the annoyance of people who say things like 'you seem to be fighting it well...' etc. I honestly don't think I made a concious decision to 'fight' but just kept waking up in dreary mornings, eating my cornflakes, blah blah...you just get on with it, don't you? I did. ... View more

i love his site and especially this video. the medical team sing along is just hilarious! ... just to let you guys and gals all know.... soon the YAC section of this site will have the added functionality of being able to upload and play directly videos just like this one. yeah!! ... View more

I like this. Do you have another? ... View more

Hi fellow recoverer I've read your piece again just now and I want to say how moving it is. I don't mean the story itself - although all our stories here are moving - I mean the way you have told it. It makes me want to read more. And I'd also be interested to read what you think about John Diamond's book. A casual chat here would suit me fine. I just want to immerse myself in writing right now and chatting can be a part of that, I know. PS. When I turned forty I received three copies of The Load Less Travelled!!!! I think my friends were trying to tell me something!!! ... View more

Arent we humans amazing when we put our mind to something? I think its great with what you are doing as long as you are being kind to yourself and focusing on what you can do with acceptance and not what you cant. Studying is challenging for anyone in the beginning. All the learned behaviour that is necessary can take its toll. Many many people feel laboured with it even when they have not been through what you have. Be kind to yourself, give yourself permission to take it as easy as you can, and above all celebrate "you" every single day. Warmest wishes for a peaceful easter and sending lots of energy your way. ... View more