Stage IV Patient by Joanne June 4, 2001

The melanoma I incurred (from sunburns in my youth) twelve years ago has reappeared. A catscan last year discovered it in my liver, and, more recently, in the frontal brain lobe. I had chemotherapy from August through February for the liver tumor, then three weeks of brain radiation for the other tumor.

What gets me through is my work--I am an associate chaplain in a nursing home. I began this ministry three years ago after a change of careers and realized immediately that it was the work I had waited for all my life! I was 60 at the time, and retired from my previous job in the school system to do this.

Even now, it is my work that brings me such joy that I hardly understand how I can be facing this, and still be so happy. Since I work 30 hours a week, I have been able to schedule all medical appointments and treatments either on my days off or before going in to work. So actually, I haven't even lost sick time!

I have read much about the importance of attitude in the face of illness. I learn so much from the people I work with at the nursing home. I have met so many, confined to wheelchairs or even to bed, who radiate joy and peace, who always meet me with a smile! I share my story with them, and they feel much freer to share theirs with me. Even staff people who have bouts with cancer stop by my office to tell me their story and encourage me.

As a chaplain, I visit patients, conduct services, and also hold small discussion sessions on spiritual topics. In all these aspects of my work, I have felt freer and more effective since I am truly "one among them" now.

--Joanne