26. august 2023
Don’t "fuck cancer"
My wife and I received "Fuck Cancer" bracelets from a group of friends. Their intention was kind, and we wear the bracelets every day as they symbolize the support we greatly appreciate and that gives us strength. However, I don't want to "fuck cancer." I have no desire to go to war against anything. In a war, there are no winners. It just doesn't feel right. Cancer isn't a demon. It doesn't wish harm upon anyone. It merely exists— as a case of cell division gone awry. In my case, it was entirely random.
Endure Cancer
My advice: Don’t demonize or "fuck cancer" . The only sensible approach is to cope with it and try to find the bright spots. The best advice I can give is ”Endure Cancer”.
The advice to "Endure Cancer" encourages not just living with the disease but actively participating in one's own well-being and treatment. This approach emphasizes the importance of quality of life, meaningful support, and cherishing moments of happiness, even in the face of illness. It underlines the virtue of perseverance through the emotional, physical, and mental trials, not by viewing the journey as a battle with winners and losers, but by navigating it with self-care and compassion.
The demonization of cancer creates unnecessary fear
The demonization of cancer creates unnecessary fear and suffering in today's society. Even people who don't have cancer are terrified of it. By characterizing the disease as an evil entity, society inadvertently imposes framing of the experience as a battle to be won or lost, or even a warrior narrative on those diagnosed, suggesting that success only comes from fighting hard and that failure (i.e., not getting well or surviving) can be a result of not fighting hard enough. This narrative overlooks the complex biological reality of cancer as a disease of cell biology, not a moral failing or an external enemy with intentions.
The advice to "Endure Cancer" shifts the narrative from one of conflict or war to one of resilience and acceptance. This perspective emphasizes living with the disease as long as it is there, focusing on finding quality of life, support, and moments of joy despite the diagnosis. It recognizes the strength in endurance, in navigating the emotional, physical, and mental challenges without framing the experience as a battle to be won or lost. By endorsing “Endure Cancer” you also stress the significance of doing everything within one’s power to optimize outcome.
