"In June, 2018, I was diagnosed with a large Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor. These tumors are not common and occur in the digestive tract. A targeted immunotherapy drug called Gleevac aids in attacking the tumor and shrinking it.
Being told that I had cancer was shocking, and I never imagined that I would have cancer, and this was not happening to me. I was angry because the extreme weakness and nausea all put a hold on my dreams, hopes, and I had to give up my job. I could not hold my head up to do the necessary computer work that my job required.
The aggressive side effects are harsh: vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite and the lack of will or interest to engage in life. I could not do simple tasks that I used to perform with ease and agility and keeping a good attitude was impossible. My whole world abruptly stopped.
This journey has not made me bitter but better. I was determined not to let this lousy diagnosis tear me down. I have learned to accept with dignity the horrendous side effects from both cancer and chemotherapy.
The love of my daughters, grandchildren, two dogs and many friends helped me get through this extremely dark time. I now look forward to successful surgery to remove the tumor, recovering from the procedure, and beginning my life once again with hope. My goal is to kick cancer’s ass and get this tumor to go away------forever."
Gayle #HotPinkWarrior