Cancer is sort of like a machine; this evil energy force turned on and turned loose in my body. And the infrastructure built to combat this disease is also like a machine (the medical/industrial complex); poised to tackle this most heinous of healthcare battlefields.
Yes, it takes a long time to get through a standard appointment/infusion session – but proportionally no longer than a dentist or podiatrist. And regrettably, business is good – unfortunately, too good. But deep within the wire and cable infrastructure of this beast, held together by the bolts and belts of support people at every juncture, lies a core of humanity that can be seen throughout the process - if we come into it with eyes wide open.
They don't want to see me there any more than I want to be there, but with infusion, information and inspiration they compassionately guide me every step of the way through the mechanics.
Clinicians tending to the technology of treatment. Dedicated professionals maintaining their poise while the scared and impatient clients await the results of their “repairs.” Steady-handed experts struggling to fix the broken parts and maintain the functioning ones.
Though surrounded by and consumed by the mechanical beast of cancer, the pit crew working on my particular race is making me feel like I’m sitting in the butter-soft leather driver’s seat of a Lamborghini. And so far, we seem to be winning the race.
