Denis' Story
"...Find ways to understand your emotions and remember that humor can be a great help in coping with cancer."-Denis
Denis I am a 53 years old and I am husband, father, grandfather, visual artist, author and aspiring violinist. In October 2006 I was diagnosed with lung cancer. My symptoms began with intense pain and pressure in my chest, followed by a sudden loss of voice. At first my family doctor prescribed antibiotics which did not help. I was then recommended to an ear, nose and throat specialist who requested a CAT scan and x-ray of my neck and lung. The tests results revealed what I has suspected all along, I had lung cancer.
Further tests at the Notre Dame clinic in Montreal, Quebec confirmed a growth of two tumors on my aorta (large artery leaving the heart) which were inoperable. By December 22nd, two months after my initial diagnosis, the situation appeared to be very serious and untreatable by radiation due to the proximity of the tumor to my aorta. Massive doses of chemotherapy was employed and proved to be very effective. The size of the tumors had reduced by 70% following chemo treatment cycles. My oncologist was very encouraging, impressed and pleased with the outcome of treatment and told me that he was possibly in partial remission.
When I was told about the diagnosis I was not surprised being a smoker and having worked in areas of glass fiber and resin for many years. However I did feel very guilty and I remember wishing I could disappear from the face of the earth. Shortly after this brief episode of despair, I decided to take a positive and combative attitude to live a full life- one day at a time. I thank my wife and children who were extremely supportive and encouraged me every step of the way.
Working mith my wonderful team of doctors and nurses, I took it upon myself to take an active role in maintaining my physical and mental health. I first decided to make the effort to walk everyday. The first day I walked 100 meters, and kept increasing the distance daily. At present I walk between 2 and 8 km a day. I also decided to write a book and I am also considering making an animation film. This spring I plan to parachute, an adventure I have always dreamed of doing; and will continue painting portraits and other art, an interest I enjoy immensley and people say I am very good at. I do not believe these projects or my hopes and dreams will cure my illness, however they allow me to accept and live in harmony with my condition.
My words of wisdom and encouragement to other lung cancer patients are speak about your illness with your family, friends and even your doctor. Find ways to understand your emotions and remember that humor can be a great help in coping with cancer. Also try not to isolate yourself. Instead, go out and meet with friends, family and your neighbors-keep as active as you can. And last but certainly not least, try occasionally to lock your cancer in a drawer. For a few hours each day, try to forget about your cancer as much as you can and liberate yourself.