When I had cancer, my best friend was with me through the worst times. She gave me a little statue of two old women growing old together.

When she got cancer, her situation was much worse. Neuroendocrine carcinoma was daunting and deathly.

This piece reflects the pain of her death with only one of us left to grow older.

I joined a fiber tribe group at Gilda’s Club during my cancer journey for breast cancer and still participate weekly. This is a crocheted blanket I made for my granddaughter. Zooming with cancer survivors as we create fiber pieces for our loved ones has brought me an immeasurable amount of joy and healing.

Crochet Blanket

I am a neuroendocrine cancer survivor living on the coast of North Carolina. I was diagnosed almost 13 years ago during a routine colonoscopy. 

I’m alive and doing well today due to a combination of early detection, excellent medical care and the absolutely wonderful support of my family. 

The photo my wife is submitting for the 2023 CURE calendar is of a painting titled “Moonlight Over The Creek.”  It’s the view from our house she painted for me shortly after I was diagnosed. I have certainly had more good days than bad since diagnosis, but on the worst days this painting has been the source of much comfort. It represents the beauty and serenity of this area and my wife’s absolute and unrelenting support during our journey with cancer.  

I carry the photo of this painting on my phone for all the bad times when I can’t be home to see the scene in person. I would very much like to see it used in next year’s calendar, but even if it’s not I hope everyone who sees it gets as much comfort and joy from it as I have.  My wife and I thank you very much for the opportunity to submit her painting.

My Best Friend Died

By Drayton Gerety

October 18th, 2022

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