20 years Cancer Free

 It was 20 years ago today that I had exploratory surgery that confirmed the devastating news that I had cancer. 

I woke up in post-op to the surgeon telling me I had a tumour. Must have been the drugs because I had no idea he was trying to break it to me gently that he had taken a lump of cancer out of my body. 

Good news ... they got it all with the first operation. So -let's get you to recover from the operation ... say 6 weeks ... and we'll put you through 10-12 weeks of cautionary radiation treatment. Picture what you would do to your worst enemy ... and x10 that! I can't count how many times friends told me I looked green ... just before I woofed my breakfast!!  It took me the better part of a year and a half to recover from it all.  It seems so long ago!!

It cost me a career in law enforcement.  My dream was to be a Mounty (Royal Canadian Mounted Police) but I wasn't fit to train when they wanted me to go.

Long story short - after 5 year of monthly check-ups followed by 7 years of yearly check-ups the doctor announces he doesn't want to see me again! Woot! 

So every June 8th, I celebrate my good health with a couple of beer ... ok ... it used to be a couple of pitchers and a Cuban cigar (a tradition Crimson Monster started).  But now that I'm old ... i have a beer at lunch!

If you happen to be having one ... here's to good health, loved ones and living happily ever after!! Emphasis on the living after part!! 

Cheers!