I'm taking a deep breath and asking for help to face my fears

[geckosfeet]

14. I am sorry to hear of your sisters illness. As you know - it is very difficult

for everyone but especially for your sister.

She knows her body and and how it feels better than anyone. That has to be respected. The side effects of chemo and radiation can wear anyone down. As others have suggested, it may be beneficial for your sister to see a therapist or join a support group. Cancer patients know that death is sometimes part of having the disease.

My wife died in her mid forties from cancer. In her case death was a relief from the pain and indignities dealt by her cancer. That was nine years ago, and I recently had my own diagnosis and treatment. I am hoping that when I go back for a check up in two months that nothing new has developed. But at this point I want to live every day and enjoy life for what it is. That is hard while you are going through treatment and it is easy to get depressed or just down. I know I became somewhat depressed and frightened.

Your sister does need support and encouragement, and I think that being with people who have had or are having similar experiences is important. Having cancer is one of those life altering experiences that can cause you to reconsider your core beliefs and assumptions about life the universe and everything.