I Hate Cancer!

October 2, 2023
Joe Bullock
Joe Bullock

Joe Bullock was diagnosed in May of 2018 with stage 3b colorectal cancer after a routine colonoscopy at age 50. During the colonoscopy his GI doctor at Duke Cancer Center found two polyps and a 1Ocm tumor in my colon. He had surgery to remove the tumor, and the surgeon reconnected his colon, and he had 40 lymph nodes removed. Three of those polyps tested positive for cancer.

Battling the unforgiving foe: Cancer.

I hate cancer!

I’m waiting to find out if a friend whom I just saw a couple of weeks ago has passed away from this disease.

I hate cancer!

Another friend is having a couple of spots of concern biopsied soon to see if his cancer has metastasized.

I hate cancer!

I am constantly being reminded that the people that I love and know personally are just waiting to die from this disease no matter how hard they fight.

I hate cancer!

Today I just feel sad because there are moments I am tired of being the one left behind. The guilt of my own survivorship bares down on me.

I hate cancer! I hate cancer! I hate cancer!

Today, I have hope.

As my friends and loved ones are dying from cancer. We will still find a cure for this relentless disease. I realize this may not happen in my life time.

Today, I have hope.

Because I’m inspired by the determination of my friends that are currently in the battle with this disease. The treatments and clinical trials that they may be a part of might help find a cure for cancer in the future.

Today, I have hope.

As we will continue to advocate for research in the cancer space to find out why so many lives are being taken because of this devastating disease. Our voices will be heard!

Today, I have hope.

That a patient’s care matters and they will be given the support to battle this disease. If a person needs medical attention, it will be given to them no matter the barriers that may present itself to them.

Today, I have hope.

I believe that more cancer survivors like myself will continue to serve the community so no one feels alone in the fight with cancer.

Today, I have hope. Today, I have hope.
I hate cancer everyday! Today, I have hope.

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