Submissions are welcome from oncologists, oncology nurses, and other cancer caregivers. E-mail mailto:[email protected], and include affiliation/title, address, and phone number, along with a photo, if available.
Living For Tomorrow
A diagnosis of cancer, a life presumed to be at an end;
Treatments for the disease, a gentle touch from a friend.
Side effects to conquer, dignity to behold;
Planning to live life, at least until you're old.
With faith on your side, and time to borrow;
We celebrate with you, living for tomorrow.
Surviving The Jungle Out There
Devastated by your diagnosis, decisions you need to make,
Emotions were numerous, no wonder why you laid awake.
Days have come and gone, chemotherapy you will always remember,
Effects you'll never forget, like riding a bike or holidays in December.
Surgery, nausea, fatigue, and hair loss may name a few,
No one felt worse than when they were happening to you.
Comforted to know there were those around you who care,
Receiving help from all of us, "Surviving the Jungle Out There."
The Colors of Cancer
We all see colors in different ways,
A cold, snowy winter or warm, sunny days.
Red is the sports car you wish to seek,
Or is it your blood that's drawn every week?
White is the color of a boat with a sail,
Or is it anemia that makes you look pale?
Blue is like the sky above,
Or is it your mood needing a shove?
Red, white, and blue, colors of the flag,
Waving it in victory, beating cancer you brag.
Your survival picture painted, this is why you're here,
We hope to see you all again, next year.
Lisa Danko, NP, is a nurse practitioner at Cancer Health Treatment Centers in Crown Point, Indiana. She writes: "In past years, our company had a Survivor's Day luncheon and I would write a poem which was laminated as a bookmark for all the 500 plus patients/guests in attendance. The poem was based on the theme for the event that year. The following are recent examples."