I wrote a poem about life with endometrial most cancers, rejecting pity and embracing power, connection and the dignity of being actually seen.
I wrote this poem a few weeks after I misplaced my lengthy, curly, salt-and-pepper hair.
The sunshine contact on the shoulder.
The averted eyes.
The talking softly.
Don’t!
Right here’s what to say:
Anything!
Chemo?
And once I nod.
You’ve bought this! You’re a fighter. You’re robust. Good for you.
Something however expensive.
I’ll embrace you if it’s worthwhile to speak.
Perhaps your mom, your sister, your pal, or, or, or.
I’ll know, as a result of you should have tears in your eyes,
and I’ll consolation you.
I, too, have had associates die from most cancers.
One in a matter of months, even with chemo.
And one pal who fought with all the pieces,
her Stage IV lung most cancers stretching out for ten years.
And one pal who selected to not deal with and was gone in 9 months.
Juicing. Withering.
I select to struggle.
It’s a no-bra day.
Steroids wore off at 5.
Proper in the midst of a author’s Zoom.
Three time zones. Pacific, Mountain, Central.
Received to go. I’m fading.
Then the bones harm.
Heating pads, Advil.
Oxy to sleep.
Get up with an Oxy hangover.
How can somebody get hooked on this?
Hop on my Writing in Jammies name.
Three-hour time distinction.
8:30 a.m. name for them.
5:30 a.m. for me.
I make it by check-in at 7:10 my time.
Fade in half an hour.
My fellow writers maintain me collectively.
Pondering of you.
Are you okay?
Sure, I’ll be positive on Monday.
Simply need to endure by means of.
You’re an inspiration.
Me? Simply muddling by means of.
Take the frost material off the tomatoes
as soon as it warms as much as 50 levels.
Perhaps I can get away with out watering them at the moment.
Examine the zucchini to assist with pollination.
The feminine blooms withered earlier than the male blooms appeared.
There’s nonetheless hope for zucchini if solely they may pollinate.
I’m the fortunate one.
Most cancers is gone with surgical procedure.
Chemo is to purchase me time.
Ten years, I hope. Till I’m 85.
I must see my grandson develop.
Don’t name me expensive.
I cowl my bald head with caps handed down from associates
wrapping me in love.
A pal sends poems.
Have a look at me with pleasure.
I imagine in science.
I’m a part of the analysis.
Docs will be taught from me
and add it to their information.
Someday we are going to beat this.
I wished my ears pierced once more, considering that’s the one means I can look within the mirror. Fortunately, I had requested my oncologist if it was okay to punch a gap in my pores and skin whereas chemo medicine coursed by means of my physique. She gave me a three-day window, and her nurse beneficial a piercing salon twenty miles from my house. “It’s the place my ladies and I am going for all our piercings.” I wore a mushy, gentle inexperienced cap, handed all the way down to me by a survivor pal, a cap which screamed “Chemo.” A 20- or 30-something lady greeted me. She was bejeweled with nostril, lips, and eyebrow piercings. A number of ear piercings. Most likely extra I couldn’t see. “Come on in, expensive,” she stated, gently touching my shoulder. I cringed. Perhaps once I’m ninety, I’ll need you to name me expensive.
Janet Dart is retired and dwelling in Bend, Oregon. After retiring, Janet turned to writing her soon-to-be-published memoir, Tender Loving Care: Escaping One of many Most Violent Cults within the World. She is presently writing a memoir about confronting racism whereas elevating her mixed-race son. Janet was recognized with thyroid most cancers in 2015, which was cured with a thyroidectomy. In January 2025, she was recognized with endometrial most cancers. The most cancers was eliminated with a full hysterectomy. She is presently present process chemotherapy and radiation to make sure all of the sarcoma cells are obliterated. Be happy to succeed in out to her at [email protected], or go to her web site: janetbestdart.com.
This piece displays the creator’s private expertise and perspective. For medical recommendation, please seek the advice of your well being care supplier.
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