Welcome to the comments and discussion of Chapter 2: When G-d Things Happen to Sick People of the book, Everything Changes: The Insider’s Guide to Cancer in Your 20s and 30s! Catch up on Chapter 1: Ramenonmics!
Let’s get started! Chapter 2!
I thought this chapter really hit home the struggles of understanding what you want for yourself, what you expect of others, and thinking about your future. I can certainly relate to Sheila in her explanation of not knowing what she wants from people. You appreciate their support, but don’t want them to be sad around you or overbearing. You don’t want to hide what’s going on or people to think you want sympathy, but you feel awkward not saying anything at all. You want to not think about cancer 24/7, but it sometimes just consumes you.
I can also appreciate her not wanting to wear the Survivor shirt. I’ve also participated in various conferences and events where you’re treated like a rock star for having had cancer. And sure, the support is nice. For some, their history with cancer is painful and long, and they don’t want to wear a crown or ribbon.
I appreciated Sheila’s decision to stay where she was and not return to Boston. I can’t image it would be easy to take on C in a new place. Then again, maybe that’s just what she needed.
As for thinking about long-term goals, C changes everything. It certainly did for me. When I was younger and someone would ask where I saw myself in 5 years, I’d answer with something career-oriented. When people ask me now, I say, “Happy, healthy, alive, and around my friends and family.” And that’s the truth.
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Thanks for joining us for our Chapter 2: When G-d Things Happen to Sick People of Everything Changes: The Insider’s Guide to Cancer in Your 20s and 30s! Join in next Monday for Chapter 3: Single.
If you’re just joining us, here are some logistics:
We will talk about a chapter each Monday until the book is done. Then, we’ll use one more Monday to talk about general feelings from the book and anything else you’d like to discuss. Join in, in the comments every week! Also, there will probably be spoilers. Read along with us!
How are you enjoying our young adult cancer book club?
