JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – I shared some news on The Morning Show on Tuesday because, at times, I might be gone from the news in the coming months.
I was diagnosed with an aggressive and progressive form of cancer. The encouraging news from my very capable doctor with Cancer Specialists of North Florida is that the survivability rate and cure rate are very high.
I intend to fight. I intend to win.
Chemotherapy has already started.
Needless to say, the news is weighing heavily on my wife, Christy, and my kids, who are everything in life to me. If there is a reason to fight and win -- it is them.
I refuse to let this cancer dominate my life and be a dictate. I am intent on living life to the fullest and going about my daily routine. And that includes being right here with you when chemotherapy doesn’t get in the way.
I am realistic there will be bumps along the way, and I am ready to deal with whatever... head on.
That said, I don’t worry about the what-ifs. That’s counterproductive.
I plan to deal with things if and when they arise.
It is my true belief that our mental and emotional wellness goes a long way in helping heal the body.
Along the way, I am documenting this fight, which I call “Fighting Cancer on My Terms.” It has become my mantra.
There is every intention of sharing things with you. I will be candid, honest, and even let you in on my most private thoughts.
I am sharing this news for one simple reason: I truly believe I can use this amazing forum to provide answers to those who hear the words, “You have cancer.” It comes with a lot of weight, baggage, fears and, yes, even guilt.
I want you to understand cancer is a word. It is not a sentence.
My fondest hope is that sharing this journey and positive news about my cancer fight can help shift the narrative from fear to hope.
I want you to walk away with a new perspective that this is all about living life – living for today.
Eleanor Roosevelt said: “Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift – that’s why it’s called ‘the present.’”
Embrace the present that today brings. Embrace life!
It’s been said: “Cancer cannot cripple love, it cannot shatter hope, it cannot conquer the spirit.”
I refuse to let it.
Christy, kids, my grandkids, my brother Bob, and my family, I love you! You are my life. You are my reason for living.
To you and all of my friends and my News4JAX family: Thank you for your love, support and prayers.