I am so fortunate to have this platform that Kevin has given to me. Our goal is to bring biomechanics to the forefront, and to enhance positive outcomes in the treatment of the walking public. However, I have been personally touched by another common malady that afflicts so many, and that is cancer. I am very fortunate, mine was detected early, and I have had the best possible treatments available today, and I am doing well. Please allow me to share a small part of my cancer journey that may resonate and hopefully help others deal with “The Big C”.
I recently attended a 3 day retreat in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania of a group called “Man Up to Cancer”, and the retreat is called “A Gathering of Wolves”. Approximately 150 men of all types were there, from all over North America, all ages, races, colors, sexual preference, and types of cancers. Some were recent “survivors” like me, others have been fighting the battle for a long time. The reason the group exists is that most cancer support groups are predominantly female, because men typically don’t like to show vulnerability or admit to being fearful. Many men are programmed to be strong and stoic, to be providers for their loved ones, not sickly and dependent upon others for their basic needs. Many men, including myself, abhor asking for help. But when you face “The Big C’, help and support is what you need most. Since the conclusion of the retreat one week ago, two of the attendees have sadly passed away. The emotional burden of dealing with a deadly disease is almost unbearable for many.
The reason I am talking about this is I am certain there is more than one person reading this who is either a man living with cancer, who knows someone who is valiantly fighting for his life with little or no support. I can tell you, most men in this situation feel alone in their plight, and it just doesn’t have to be that way. So please look up “The Man up to Cancer” Facebook page and share it with anybody who may be helped by the group. It costs nothing to join.
On a related subject, I would also encourage everyone to check out the movie “Jim Allison: Breakthrough”. It is the remarkable story of the man who discovered immunotherapy for cancer, and serves as a great inspiration for anyone involved in the healing arts. Millions of people owe a huge debt of gratitude to Dr Allison, including myself.
