My Name is Ann, and I’m a Cancer Survivor

In this corner, stage III Soft Tissue Sarcoma, an advanced form of a rare and aggressive cancer found in the thigh.  In the opposite corner, the Westfield Wrangler, known for her tenacity, perseverance and positive attitude.

“Howard, this boxing match is a tough one.  Sarcoma has a strong track record of taking down its opponents.  We’ve already seen some dirty fighting in the ring.”

“I can’t disagree, Don.  Sarcoma has delivered quite a few blows, but the Westfield Wrangler keeps picking herself up.  The Wrangler may be inexperienced in fighting this type of opponent, but I think she’s getting the edge.  I’m just telling it like it is.”

“After nine rounds, the Wrangler seems to be gaining momentum, Howard.  Oh, look at that!  It seems she has Sarcoma on the ropes!”

“Down goes Sarcoma.  Down goes Sarcoma.  Down goes Sarcoma!  Ladies and gentleman, the Wrangler has won the bout!”

I, the Wrangler, am happy to announce that, yesterday, I earned the title of – cancer survivor.  A nine-month fight has come to an end.  A CT scan showed “no evidence of disease” – my treatment has been successful and I’ve been declared cancer-free.  I felt like Rocky when I got the news.  I started fist pumping, and happy tears welled up from somewhere deep inside – they’ve probably been in there since the battle began.

I may have been in the ring by myself, but I was never alone.  I owe so much to friends, family, colleagues and even strangers who have supported me in so many different ways.  I can’t express how much that support has meant to me.  Thank you from the bottom of my heart!  Now I start living life by the quarter, with doctor visits and bloodwork scheduled every three months.  Sarcoma is a “front-loaded” cancer so I will be monitored closely, especially for the next two years.  In addition to the quarterly doctor’s visits, I’ll have CT scans twice a year.  I don’t know what the future might hold – Sarcoma may very well want to get back into the ring for a rematch someday.  For now, however, I’m gonna fly – “flying high now, gonna fly, fly, fly!”

---