I’m going to chime in here from my perspective as a 3-time cancer survivor. First, just a little background.
I am 46 years old. I lost my leg at age 3 from a rare cancer with an 80% mortality rate. If the doctors had not amputated my leg when they did, I would have been dead within months. I have not had a recurrence of that type of cancer, thank God!
Then at age 35--with no family history--I was diagnosed with Stage II breast cancer. I actually could see the lump on the surface of my skin. I had never had a mammogram because of my age--I was under 40, the recommended age for a base line mammogram. The biopsy showed two different cancers: Ductal Carcinoma, and Adenocarcinoma. I have not had a recurrence of these cancers, either, thank God!
Then 20 months later--exactly one year to the day I when finished my breast cancer chemo--I was diagnosed with Stage IIIC ovarian cancer. Stage IV and beyond is in most cases terminal. Originally, I was being treated for an ovarian cyst--that looked like a cyst, and acted like a cyst. I actually went into surgery just for the cyst removal. There was no suspicion of cancer at all. The doctor was shocked to see the extent of the cancer spread, and called in an emergency oncology surgeon to do a complete hysterectomy. I have not had a recurrence of this cancer, as well, thank God!
Throughout all of this, I truly believe God has had me in His hands. It could have been so much worse. One day, my sister called to tell me she had been praying for me, and had felt strongly that God revealed to her that my battles with cancer were “not unto death, but unto life”. Praise God!!!!!!!
I give Glory to God first and foremost for my survival! I also believe He was with all of the surgeons, and doctors, and nurses--guiding their hands. Because He was going to make sure His will would be accomplished in my life.
I believe God created us with the capacity to learn great things, and to put that knowledge to great use, if it is used wisely. I participated in a clinical trial during my breast cancer chemo; in hopes the knowledge gained may help future cancer patients.
However, the point I’m trying to make: knowledge and advances in medical arenas are not inherently ominous or evil, but I do believe it is within man’s sinful nature to twist it into something that is.
A postscript. I had genetic testing done to determine if I carried the genetic mutation that predisposes some women to breast cancer. It’s called BRCA 1, and BRCA 2. I don’t have it. However, it was discovered I have a rare genetic syndrome that can cause multiple primary cancers--cancers that are not related or connected to one another in any way. In my case, it did just that.
Without that testing, I would not be aware of the potential for future cancer diagnosis. I have been cancer free for the last 8 ½ years, by the Grace of God, and the skill and knowledge He gave to my doctors (whether they know it or not!). I know I am in God’s hands, no matter what happens! Amen!
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