I was diagnosed with cancer during the early stages of my teenage life, 14 to be precise. The cancer would expand in the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is part of the body's immune system. In simple terms it helps us fight infections and diseases. The actual cancer was called Non-Hodgkins Disease and I was staged 4B. From what I recall, the stages go up to 5. Stage 5 being when the cancer spreads into the organs. I was a very high risk patient. I went through a course of chemotherapy. It lasted around three to four months with breaks into between. Its important to have the breaks, it allows the body to somewhat recover from the intense sessions as they are quite oppressive to the body. As we are aware the chemotherapy itself has many side effects. After my treatment was completed, I was doing very well to the point I didn't require radiotherapy.
I went back to high school for a short while, but after a certain period I had a relapse. It was frightening and this is where everything changed. For a cancer to come back so quick it was not normal. The lumps in my neck had grown back in quick concession and I was starting to feel very ill again. This time round is where I endured chemotherapy and high-dose chemotherapy, something that is given to grown adults. Radiotherapy was also included, plus a stem cell transplant. The overall intake left my body in bits and turmoil. I felt lifeless, I couldn't speak, I couldn't move, I couldn't eat and I would need to be washed and relieved. I honestly thought death was sitting beside me the whole time. For more context/info I will be doing a separate blog regarding my experience with cancer and the after effects, so keep an eye out for that.
I remember, I was laying in the hospital bed and I would try to call out to whatever was above, this "Higher Power", but I had no voice. My lips were frozen. I wanted to lift my hands, but it was impossible. Mountains held me down, this was the feeling. So I would ask for help through my imagination, meaning I could hear my aid/voice through my mind. I was desperate. The logic behind this was, if this being is the Creator and its Omnipotent then with no effort it will hear/detect my plead. [Omnipotent: All-Powerful, Supreme, its easy for Him سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى]
Going through such a severe process really changed my outset on reality. It made me appreciate life and all the perks/blessings surrounding me. I was mature to a level like no other 14/15 year old. I had no choice but to grow up after such an occurrence. Going through the recovery stage was extremely slow, but progressive. An experience such as this made me contemplate my existence and the opportunity to live another day.
In my next blog I will touch on the recovery period and a vital incident with my Granddad.
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