Thanksgiving Reflections: A Life-Altering Discovery
Three years ago, Thanksgiving night unfolded like any other. After a day filled with indulgent feasting and the familiar sounds of football echoing in the background, I was somewhat relaxed, enjoying a drink with my brother-in-law. The laughter and camaraderie were a comforting backdrop, but little did I know that the evening would take a dramatic turn.
Around 9 PM, I retreated to my office, a space where I often found solace amidst the holiday chaos. As I casually browsed the internet, my mind drifted to a biopsy I had undergone on November 10th. The doctor had assured me that my prostate looked good and that I would hear back in about a week. I had convinced myself that there was nothing to worry about, brushing off the results as a mere formality.
However, curiosity got the better of me, and I decided to check the online medical portal. As I logged in, my heart raced slightly, but I still held onto the hope that everything was fine. That hope was shattered the moment I saw the word “adenocarcinoma” on the screen. I remember thinking, “Damn, that’s a big word.” A quick Google search confirmed my worst fears: cancer.
In that instant, the room felt as if it had closed in around me. The laughter and warmth of the holiday seemed to dissipate, replaced by a cold wave of reality. I was alone in my thoughts, grappling with the fact that I had just discovered I had prostate cancer—on Thanksgiving, no less—and without any prior warning from my doctor. Surely, he must have been on holiday, I thought, trying to rationalize the silence.
With my brother-in-law sitting just a few feet away, I forced myself to maintain a façade of normalcy. Inside, however, everything felt profoundly altered. The weight of the diagnosis settled heavily on my shoulders, and I realized that I was at a pivotal moment in my life.
That night marked the beginning of a new journey for me—one that would require education, resilience, and a proactive approach to my health. I quickly understood that while doctors are invaluable, they are often overwhelmed with patients. I had to become my own advocate, my own team leader in this medical journey.
As the holiday season continued, I dove into research, seeking knowledge about prostate cancer, treatment options, and support networks. I learned that being informed is empowering, and it transformed my approach to health care. I began to ask questions, seek second opinions, and connect with others who had faced similar challenges.
Looking back, that Thanksgiving night was a turning point. It was a reminder that life can change in an instant, and while the news was daunting, it also sparked a determination within me to take control of my health. (This story is the epitome of the FAFO acronym—”F* Around and Find Out.” ) Today, I encourage others to be proactive, to educate themselves, and to remember that they are their best advocates in the journey of health and healing.
