I just finished reading a book about a woman who was diagnosed with breast cancer. The story dealt with her reaction to the diagnosis, the vivid details of her treatment, and the support she received from her loving husband and neighborhood friends. While it was a heart-wrenching story, there were many victories as well.
At the beginning, when the doctor told her about the suspicious lump, she said that she had been faithful to get her annual mammograms—up until the past two years. Yet it was those past two years that were the most important. She couldn’t help thinking, “If I had gotten my mammograms… If I had been more consistent about self-examinations….”
The difference between her story and mine is about 5 years. I had not reached the age when women start getting mammograms when I noticed some irregular discharge. I mentioned it to my doctor, and she ordered a mammogram. On the film we saw a small white hurricane—it had all the earmarks of cancer. A follow-up ultrasound was ordered, and it looked like cancer on the ultrasound too. But the edges were clearly defined, so the doctor performed a lumpectomy and successfully removed the offensive tissue. She told me, “If you had waited five more years, I’d be treating you for cancer.”
God has different plans for different children. Some of us must face cancer while others are delivered from it. That doesn’t mean I’ve never had any trials, only different ones. But I have learned to never take my health for granted.
Job 1:21Ā And [Job] said, “Naked came I out of my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return thither: the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD.”
Written for the Five-Minute-Friday Link-up: IF
Photo courtesy of Kate Motaung, hostess of Five-Minute Friday
The Abundant Heart 
That “what if” question is deep indeed. And yes, different paths, different circumstances, but same God ā¤ļø
I also enjoyed your bio – 48 and still feel like I’m growing up. Great first steps on your writing journey!!
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Thank you! Speaking of my bio, it’s time for an update, as my 50th birthday came and went a few weeks ago. š
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Wonderful post, Angela!! It is sad when something happens like in your post where “If only” we had done” something different the outcome would have been different and positive. So happy things worked out positively for you on the cancer issue! Just proves the truth – “We know not what the future holds”.
Thanks so much for this inspiring and moving piece and sharing your experiences!!
xoxo
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It is so true Angela..and i am happy you shared your story as well…being in charge of our health is indeed what’s necessary..
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Iām happy for you that you caught that lump on time. I know what you mean about learning at a later age what you want to be when you grow up. I am a few years ahead of you but had to go through that same type of questioning between age 48-50. Now I really do enjoy writing and hospice volunteering.
Blessings to you!
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The Lord bless you for your hospice volunteer work. That means a lot to me, as my dad was under hospice care for four months before he passed away, and we grew quite fond of his nurse.
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Reblogged this on The Reluctant Poet and commented:
Come and read about the wistful, wondering word – IF – in Angela’s Five Minute Friday (FMF) writing prompt. You might want to give this prompt a try???
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You sure know how to elevate a tiny two-letter word to something grand, don’t you? š Thank you so much for the share, Chuck.
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Ha! I do try my best! It’s just such a great “Pondering” word that calls up all kinds of thought and memories! Really Loved you post and your shared experiences. Happy to share with followers!!!
xoxo
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