The following Inspirational Story was taken from Silver Linings: The Other Side of Cancer, published by the Oncology Nursing Press, Inc.
"Cancer is not a death sentence." We all need to take advantage of the second chance at life that we are given.
I started smoking when I was 12 years old. I was a two-pack-a-day smoker for more than 30 years. In 1984, I lost my voice and was treated for laryngitis. By 1987, I wanted a second opinion. I was then diagnosed with throat cancer. In 1988, the surgery to remove my cancer also removed my voice box. I was devastated. I also had an infection in my lymph nodes, which could have led to my death. To make the situation even worse, my marriage fell apart, and I was left to take care of my son, Dwayne, alone. I felt abandoned. I was forced to leave my job. My income was depleted from my ex-wife's drug habit. I was on disability for one-and-one-half years. Everything I had worked for was gone and could not be replaced.
Somehow I made it! I began to help rehabilitate other people with laryngectomies. I became the president of a large support group. I created a workshop with the help of other members. I now volunteer for the American Cancer Society to educate school children on the dangers of tobacco use. I urge them to quit or never start smoking. I also work as a volunteer with the state of California to promote tobacco education for people of all ages. I am a facilitator for "I Quit" and "Fresh Start" smoking cessation classes. I also work with hospitals and companies to educate patients with laryngectomies on the latest surgical procedures and devices. I support the American Heart Association, American Lung Association, and National Cancer Institute in their lawsuit against the tobacco industry. It will never replace what I have lost, but I hope it can help prevent harm to others.
In 1995, I was diagnosed with prostate cancer. I underwent surgery and recovered. I continue to be very active. I have reached many goals since 1984, the beginning of the end of my good health. I am always pleased to see others fight back against adversity and say, "Cancer is not a death sentence." We all need to take advantage of the second chance at life we are given. I truly thank my City of Hope family for their continued support and encouragement.
Lou Bolduc
Throat and prostate cancer survivor
California