CANCER SUCKS!

I have known Judy and Ray for over twenty years. I met Judy in Graduate School and was introduced to her husband Ray soon after. Ray and I took an immediate liking to each other when we discovered that we both loved black licorice.

Even though they live in another state, we remain very close. Judy and I talk weekly and have visited each other's homes often. Due to work demands and distance, we do not visit as often as both of us would like.


Ray was diagnosed with Bile Duct Cancer last week. The prognosis is poor. He will be getting radiation with hopes of prolonging his life to about 8 months. My first impulse was to fly to their home, but then I stop and realize that my stronger need is to be there in a way they need me to be.

It amazes me that I work with families with the same situation every week and feel pretty confident in my role as a social worker. But when it comes to Ray's disease, I feel so inadequate. I want to help, but don't know what to do. Judy and I will sort it all out I know. But right now I just know that "Cancer Sucks!"


CANCER SUCKS!

I work with cancer patients every day.
I truly understand their individual needs.
I always know how to help.
I typically know what to say.

But when cancer comes to someone I love,
I just know how inadequate I feel.
I don't know what to do.
I don't know what to say.

Being there just doesn't feel like enough.
Listening can't make things better.
I want things to be like before,
although I know it is forever changed.

Cancer is so random.
No one is immune.
It makes one pause and wonder.
What is the lesson; the purpose?

I just know that cancer does teach us
about life; about grace.
It's all about special moments.
It's all about love.

All I can do is continue to listen.
All I can do is be there for them.
But in the end I still believe,

Cancer sucks!