Cancer

[Bill Floyd]

It seems like there's more around than there used to be.  This makes the fifth person I've known personally, in just the past few years.

They say it's a case of Life gone rogue at the cellular level, unrestrained growth expanding without regard to function or boundary.

We were having breakfast at a cafe near the University of Washington when you got the call.  I knew by your face the news was grim.

Only an entity oblivious to consequence would sacrifice its host just to keep its offspring growing, but I keep thinking of fracking and unlimited access to ammunition and viral malware and all the corners cut in the name of expediency and expansion.

[Paul de Denus]

"It seems like there's more around than there used to be." yes, it is currently visiting us with a family member. The helplessness doesn't help. The best to you all.

[bolton carley]

so sorry.  this is so well written and yet, i hate it for it's message.

[Javed Baloch]

By no means exploitive. I have had a loved one whom we lost to cancer way back. So I do know what the experience is like. Best wishes and many prayers with you and your family.

[Toby Tucker Hecht]

There are almost 12 million cancer survivors in the U.S.  You probably know many of them without actually knowing they are survivors.  Let's hope your loved one will be added to this list.  Best wishes and many prayers.

[Teresa]

No, I don't believe it's exploitive.  Not in your hands.  And I was terrified when I saw the title and 8 comments already.  Not good news, but I'm thankful you're okay.  I had a similar experience today, not a loved one diagnosed with cancer but I had to spend the morning with very sick strangers which gave me the urge to sit in the hospital chapel.  Very strange, knowing my spiritual issues.  I've felt a black cloud over my head ever since which makes me doubly thankful you're okay and I wish your mother-in-law well.  It's better to have cancer today than twenty, even ten years ago.  Big hug from here. 

[Stephen Torelli]

Bill, our thoughts and prayers are with you and family.

[Jadie Jones]

It's just a shock because he's 54. He's had a full life, but he could have so much more to go.

[Bill Floyd]

@ Jadie: Of those five people I've known who've fought cancer in the past few years (a couple are in remission, thankfully), health habits seemed to have very little to do with it.  Look at it this way: we all die at some point, and your father will be able to look back on an active life of accomplishment, while his brother sounds like the sort of miserable bastard who blames everything on someone else (the government!  the corporations!  the media!) and will have nothing to show for his time.    

[Cita]

What Gita said.  Not exploitative at all.  And honest and insightful connection.  

[Angela]

Echo Gita.  Superb.  Fave.