We first met in 2007.
We rendezvoused in 2010.
And on a Friday in early September I heard that familiar phrase, “Michael, I am sorry, but…..” It is back.
With my first diagnosis of male breast cancer I gave my power to the doctors, the drug – Tamoxifen, and fear.
The second discovery of cancer brought radiation, a more potent drug, and an inward journey to reclaim what I had lost – my truth.
Now, new lessons and paths are waiting to be unveiled.
The cancer cells were found in two abnormal lymph nodes located in my chest cavity. A discovery from a search for clues of a persistent cough.
I’ve done the blood work, had the PET scan, and will meet with my oncologist – a routine engraved in my memory.
As I wait, I run through the gamut of emotions so intricately tied to this disease. My mind easily drifts to those dark, shadowy thoughts, Where are these cells? Where have they set up residence?
Fear emerges.
In these moments I rely on what I have learned in my journey with cancer – Breathe.
I breathe and just be with this uncertainty.
I breathe and allow stillness to caress every fiber of my being.
I breathe and grant trust the power to overshadow my fear.
I breathe and gather the inner strength to face what lies before me.
I breathe in gratitude for the healing souls who grace my life.
I breathe and be in the moment – for that is all I have.
I breathe and take in life.
My third dance with cancer has begun. Its rhythm and movements all too familiar. I’ve been here before. But this time, I choose to lead in this dance with cancer by living fearlessly.
They say, the third time’s a charm. I’m counting on it.
http://www.michaelwkovarik.com/
The Journey continues It’s Back~ Third Time’s a Charm with Host Michael Kovarik
http://anticancerclub.com/
For more information on male breast cancer, survivors, and an upcoming documentary, please visit The Male Breast Cancer Coalition and Men Have Breasts Too.
Michael is the author of: Healing Within: My Journey with Breast Cancer. He lives in Greenwich, NY.
Healing Journeys Radio Show with Michael Kovarik is heard on Dreamvisions 7 Radio Network every Thursday at 2pm & 2amEST and every 4th Sunday at 7pmEST when Dreamvisions 7 Radio Network is live at 1510am WMEX Boston
Dreamvisions 7 Radio Network is a Holistic Boston based syndicated Internet Radio Station with radio station affiliates both Terrestrial and Internet. The mission of the Station is to facilitate the enlightenment of humankind by providing a platform for holistic and healing programs that educate listeners bringing them conscious awareness of their inner light so that ever growing numbers of people may learn to live with joy, love, peace and ease. We reach local, national and international audiences with listeners in over 135 countries~ bit.ly/Dreamvisions7RadioNetwork-ListenLive