Happy 1-Year Cancer Free
By John Bach
Julie and I have celebrated a ton of things in our lives together. Countless birthdays, holidays, anniversaries and the like. Nothing measures up, however, to celebrating her life — especially when the alternative seemed so possible.
A year ago on February 22 (yep, 2-22-22) we received the call from Julie’s surgical oncologist. We both stood nervously in our bedroom listening intently.
“Is now a good time to discuss your pathology results?” the doctor asked. Julie immediately started to cry and assumed it was bad. “I don’t have anything but good news for you. It was a complete response. The cancer is gone. You are cancer free.”
Cue the angels. Bring the tears. Flood the room with warm sunlight.
We couldn’t have been more relieved — more thankful. Still are. You don’t realize how much you desire a long life with someone until it feels like it could be cut short.
Photo credit/Kayla & Caleb
It isn’t lost on me that today is Ash Wednesday. Seeing people walk around with ash on their forehead is today’s reminder of our mortality. “From dust you came, and to dust you shall return.”
For those who go through it, cancer is a daily reminder of mortality. In fact, it’s the thing that lingers constantly — even for survivors. What if? Why? How long? Will it come back? These are the questions that torment.
As much as we want to celebrate today — and we do — it’s a challenge to fully go there. The reality is that the last year has been incredibly hard. Julie’s endured multiple surgeries, tons of infusions and much more. And next week she’ll have breast reconstruction surgery.
The girls and I couldn’t be more proud of the work she has put in. The physical work, the mental work. But everyday is its own challenge. Even a year out from such good news, cancer can still feel like the wound that may never heal.
Thanks to those who have walked alongside us during this unwanted journey. You share in today’s celebration. I’m not sure I can say it better than the band Shinedown, who dropped this lyrical truth: “It's amazing what the hard times can reveal. Like who shows up, who walks away, and who's for real.”
You know who you are. Thanks for showing up. Thanks for being real. And a VERY HAPPY 1-YEAR to my love.
