You would think that after all this time, I would learn. When you a part of a family, have good friends and are involved in a faith community, you don’t ever walk alone. There are always others to surround you with emotional support, kind gestures and listening ears.
When I was diagnosed with prostate cancer, I felt like I was walking alone. This despite understanding that one in eight men get the same diagnosis in their lives. It was a lonely feeling knowing that I had cancer. The medical community let me know they would be walking beside me. My wife was immediately by my side, although just as scared as I was. As I shared with my friends, they too offered me support and love. My children were also concerned but offered listening hearts. I joined a support group of other men and they shared their stories – their fears and their joys. I immediately knew that I was not dealing with this by myself.
I am now two years past surgery and the cancer for now is “undetectable”. I praise God for that every day. I give thanks to the surgeon, the medical team, my wife, my family and my church family for not letting me walk through this desert alone.
I am now training to be a MENtor through an organization called Zero Prostate Cancer. Soon I will be paired with other men going through what I’ve gone through. I’ll be there for my mentees to let them know – you are not alone.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for walking along with me on my journey. I pray that I will not let others walk alone. Amen
David Irvine