James

When I told friends about my cancer, soon after I was diagnosed, they responded as if I told them I was going to die. It's one of those things that even after years of research and countless advances in treatments, people still think that cancer is a death sentence.

And even now ten years later people respond the same way. Although I certainly don't announce it to everyone I meet, the few people that find out I once had cancer, react as if I told them I once climbed Mount Everest.

Everyone thinks that cancer is a big deal... and you know what? It is a big deal. But one thing that "cancer" taught me is that "life" is a bigger deal.

It is true that when I was diagnosed with cancer I thought about dying. And the fact is I have probably thought about dying nearly every single day since.

The reason is simple: Everyone is going to die. There is not a person on this earth who doesn't know that. But the fact is people don't think about it. They don't really think about how short of time they have on this earth.

Too many people say, "I wish I had done this" or "I wish I had tried that." Too many people wonder "what if."

Stop wondering what would happen "if" you did something. Find out for yourself and "do it."

Pursue those dreams now! Don't wait because before you know it... it will be too late.

That is what cancer taught me.

It may be a bit morbid but it's true.

Everyone dies... but not everyone truly lives.

Leukemia
Diagnosed at age 17
Now 27

Reprinted with permission from the book "Kids with Courage."
"Kids with Courage" may be obtained by calling Wisconsin Clearinghouse at 800-322-1468.

No part of "Kids with Courage" may be reproduced in any way or by any means without permission in writing form from:
University of Wisconsin Comprehensive Cancer Center
K4/666 Clinical Science Center
600 Highland Avenue
Madison, WI 53792