Kimberly Federoff
Faith and Fight
Cancer is a disease that affects many families all
across the world. When given a diagnosis of cancer many people associate that
with the end of life. There are many effective ways to treat various types of
cancer however, mesothelioma is one of those types of cancer that when
diagnosed almost always means a swift end to a cherished life. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer
that forms over the protective lining of vital internal organs, namely the
heart, lungs, and abdomen. Like many people that have suffered from mesothelioma, James Rhio O’Connor developed
the disease after being exposed to asbestos when he was young. This brave man
was given a year to live, but he defied all odds and surpassed his “expiration
date” by over seven years. He combined modern medicine with other treatments
such as a positive “mind over body” outlook on life, a change of diet, and also
focusing on having fun and enjoying life knowing that there was something
bigger than himself to focus on. All of these treatments lead to his prolonged
life, and greatly enhanced his quality of life. Rhio’s story not only lends
inspiration to those diagnosed with mesothelioma, but those diagnosed with any
sort of terminal cancer. With a positive attitude and persistence anything is
possible.
If I were in the same situation as Rhio, I would
like to think that I would be just as brave as he. My love of life and my
passions would keep me going. I have a passion for performing, especially
singing. There have been many trials in my life, and singing has gotten me
through all those hard times. My grandmother, whom I was particularly close
with, fought through cancer. It started as lung cancer then spread to her
brain. By the time the doctors found the cancer, they gave her two weeks to
live; she pushed through and lived an additional 9 months. She decided that she
would not only partake of what modern medicine had to offer, but she would
fight it herself. With laughter, the love of our family, and fighting to see
one of my performances that she was very excited about she, like Rhio,
surpassed all odds and lived a considerable amount longer than the doctors
thought was possible.
I am a strong believer in “mind over matter” or
“mind over body”, as some say. If I ever got a prognosis of cancer, I would
focus most of my energy on fighting. I would not completely rely on modern
medicine, although I am thankful for all the men and women that devote their
time and energy and knowledge on finding treatments for cancer. I have faith
that there is something greater out there that can help me fight disease, and
if I put my trust in that, and focus on the positive aspects of life I can
fight through anything. Singing has always been there for me to clear my mind,
and it helps me stay positive. I really think that alternative treatments, such
as singing, in my case, could help me if I ever was diagnosed with cancer.
Positivity is very important, and focusing on the future. Many people halt any
future plans, because they are afraid of a lack of future. I think that having
something in the future to look forward to would help me, I know it helped my
grandma. As long as you keep fighting, never get tired, and never give up, the
human body, and brain in particular, can achieve miracles.
I think that there is a time and place for modern
medicine. Radiation, Chemotherapy, and surgery have helped and saved many
people’s lives throughout the world. So I would definitely utilize what the
brilliant oncologists throughout the world have discovered in regards to cancer
treatments. However, through pondering and personal experience, with my
grandmother, I have come to realize that other treatments are important. Rhio
did not just expand his life because of modern medicine; he took his diagnosis
into his own hands and said “I will not give up”. That fighting attitude is very
important and if I ever was in the same situation as him, I would take-upon
that same attitude. Rhio is such an inspiration. He, along with my grandma,
really helps me to understand that life should not be taken for granted. And
doing something you love will make you enjoy life more, and in turn give you
more strength to fight in a battle against a terrible disease.
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