Miguel, Mexico
I remember, over a year ago, I had overall weakness. I was falling asleep a lot, felt without much energy, and my sister asked me to get some lab work done. I was relucant at first, but I did it to humor her. I did found out I had severe anemia. I went to the doctor, had some additional studies and they couldn't figure out what was wrong. I had to be refered to a speciallist, who recommended to get a colonoscopy done. After some studies, and the colonoscopy, my doctor found some polyps. He made a biopsy and after some studies, found out that these where colorectal cancer. To anyone who reads this, please, don't take your health for granted.
My biggest challenge on all of this, was accepting help from my family. I've always felt like I've been an independent individual, always there to help others and not asking for help. After my diagnosis, and start of treatment, I had to face the reality... I needed help, for even the basic tasks. It was hard for me to accept it, because I felt like a burden to everyone around me. It was after several weeks, and a lot of talking with them, that I understood. They where there for me, because they cared. I was NOT a burden to them, but their friend, their brother, their son, their uncle, whom they loved and cared about. It broke me when I undersood, because I didn't realized how important I was (and am) to them.
After my diagnosis, I tried to keep a busy mind. Not to think about my situation, but it was inevitable at times. I started talking more about it, with professionals, an with people around me. I was given an advise... anchor yourself to someone you care. Remember that, they are your beacon, you are doing it for them. My anchor, you ask? My nephews... I couldn't fathom a reality where I leave them here. I wake up every morning and fight because of them. They bring me joy, they show me their love every change they get, so in return, I must keep fighting to be here for them.
Fortunatelly, I had medical insurance. In Mexico, if you don't have health insurance, you are pretty much screwd (mind the lenguage), as the public health systems are awful (despite what our goverment says). If I didn't had insurance, I wouldn't be having treatment right now. Foruntatelly, my insurance broker, and all medical staff have been wonderful. They all explain everything in detail, assist me with all processes, help me out to keep going. Everything with them has been a wonderful experience.
Don't give up. I understand that sometime, we go to dark places within our minds, and it's valid, no one really understands what we are struggling with, so it's valid to go there, but DON'T stay there. Find your beacon, find your anchor to life, and keep fighting. People around you care, even if you don't see them, they are there, waiting for you and willing to help you out. Reach out to them, and don't be afraid to ask for help (from them, and even from professionals if it helps you out). Remember, you are loved, you are worth it, and someone out there cares for you. I hope that, my words reach out to someone, and hopefully, can help them. Lots of love to everyone.