I then replied, "yes, mama told me that they have found a mass on her liver."
The next reply was like a bomb that had just exploded. My aunt confirmed my greatest fear. Yes, the fear that this mass will be a malignant one. It is cancer, stage IV, and since it is already stage IV, it had metastasize to her brain and lungs.
I paused for a while trying to comprehend every word that was written on the message. I remember the last time she visited our place. She was athletic, full of energy and without a doubt, very healthy. We had a fun time exploring the hundred islands in Alaminos, Pangasinan, in which she taught me how to kayak. The Baguio experience was great too, she shop for a lot of native things as well as for the famous Sungka and we had a great time tasting her favorite filipino dishes. And now, she is damn sick.
Cancer is becoming ramphant nowadays. Genes added by poor lifestyle is always the root cause of the disease. And when people hear that one has a cancer, the next question will always be "what stage?". It is a known fact that early detection is the key in managing the disease. But once the disease is in its late stage, all we could do is try to prolong the time, prevent further suffering, and let them live their life.
I seen people who have been fighting with the Big C. I have seen them go through their surgery, have their chemo or being confined to the hospital due to infections. My worked as an Oncology Nurse had allowed me to be with those suffering from cancer pain in which narcotic medications are being given to ease the pain, but sometimes wont work at all. I dont want to see ate L go through this stuff, the picture of her being a cancer patient saddens me.
I know what stage IV cancer is. I know what she will go through. But I hoping for the best for her. She is strong, and I believe she can deal with this. With a little prayer that I can offer and God's divine intervention, I'm hoping she will have a smooth journey fighting with this big C.
and now, I just want to shout and say,
"Yes, SHE CANCERVIVE!"
