Wednesday 26 August 2009

Light at the end of the tunnel

It goes without saying that the internet can be a double-edged sword - some of the information you access in the quest for knowledge on a particular topic tells you things which, in retrospect, you really would prefer not to know. Which is where I found myself at the beginning of the week, after going round and round in online circles. However, it can also bring you into contact with strangers bearing heart-warming news - which is where I find myself today.

One such person is H, whose husband was diagnosed with mesothelioma in November 2006. He has had two courses of chemotherapy; his meso substantially reduced in size following the most recent treatment and they are both now enjoying the summer and life in general, some three years post-diagnosis.

The other is S, whose father was diagnosed with mesothelioma in March. Since completing his course of chemotherapy, he has had nine weeks free of hospital visits and is enjoying his life to the full, by the sound of it!

Hearing about these positive experiences reminds me that there is light at the end of the chemo tunnel, even if it feels like a long way off at the moment and isn't getting any closer whilst Steve's treatment is on hold. However, I know we'll get there eventually, as others have before us. Thanks to H and S for the inspiration to help us along the way.

In the meantime, a certain song keeps popping unbidden into my mind. In normal circumstances, it would make me wince - not my taste at all (with apologies to any fans). But looking out of the window at the wind and rain, it seems rather apt for today's blog. If you hate 60s musicals look away now! Otherwise, wear a smile and start humming....

Gray skies are gonna clear up, put on a happy face;
Brush off the clouds and cheer up, put on a happy face.
Take off the gloomy mask of tragedy, it's not your style;
You'll look so good that you'll be glad ya' decide to smile!
Pick out a pleasant outlook, stick out that noble chin;
Wipe off that "full of doubt" look, slap on a happy grin!
And spread sunshine all over the place. Just put on a happy face!

Lee Adams & Charles Strouse


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