Reassurance

After learning about my diagnosis, the doctor immediately supplied some reassurance. First he mentioned that this form of cancer is actually very common in males between 18-35 years old. Secondly, he mentioned that not only is this disease very treatable, but is also the most CURABLE behind testicular cancer.


I left work immediately, made a few important phone calls and quickly remembered a very brief email conversation with a friend from college three months earlier. Jay Ensminger (some of you Hiram alum may remember this frizzy-haired saxophonist/baseball player/amateur philosopher.......what a hell of a combo) had informed me that he was diagnosed with the same disease a couple years back. We exchanged another couple emails and I had the good fortune of actually speaking with him that day. I know the days ahead are going to be tough but Jay eased a lot of tension running through my mind. I can't thank you enough Jay-- thanks so much!


I also had the plessure of talking to a good family/church friend who was diagnosed with cancer three years ago at the age of 16. Seriously, this kid is only 19 years old now, but he's the toughest SOB I've ever meet. He's beaten cancer twice already, had a bone marrow transplant and his attitude now is just as strong, if not stronger than it was 5 years ago. Stevie Giallourakis, you truly are an inspiration my man.....keep goin' strong, I'm right there with ya bud. Talk about reassurance....not one negative term/phrase/sentence came out of his mouth when we spoke! I mean, our society was basically predicated on the strength and knowledge of the Greek culture (haha), Steve is just following in his/our ancestors footsteps.