Happy Birthday! You have Cancer!

appy Birthday! You have cancer!

I freaking hate this. The week of thanksgiving 2021 I noticed an odd lump on my neck the size of a lemon. I happened to have an appointment with my regular Dr the following week. Sophie (she insists I can her by her first name) wanted it scanned right away but let me know she didn’t think it was cancer. But insanity with insurance began. It took weeks to sorts out But then the Sunday after Christmas my lemon swelled up to an angry grapefruit. I went to the ER on Wednesday the 29th. Despite a battery of tests, the Doctor told she had no idea what it was, but she didn’t think it was cancer.

I was sent to Dr Finlay who took needle biopsies but let me know he didn’t think it was cancer.

It was cancer. It IS cancer I have a lump of cancer on my neck the size of peach. What is up with all those damn fruit metaphors?

Dr Lim confirmed it was cancer. I don’t understand why I’m not crying or angry, but I feel more in shock. My birthday is in a few weeks and I’m genuinely starting to wonder if it will be my last.

I’m also terrified for my financial situation. My company was just acquired by a larger company. Often that means layoffs. How am I going to find a new job while battling cancer? While my company is letting me take time off for tests (so many tests) it’s bitterly cold. Cabs to and from cost about $75. I’m losing a lot of income taking time off.

I hear such horror stories about mind blowing expensive medication and insurance companies covering tests and medication and then OOPSIE changing their minds about it. I know $1500 sounds like a lot of money but if I can get 30 people to chip in $50 a piece that’s it. I want to sock it away. Hopefully I’ll be able to find something I can do from home. We still aren’t sure what my treatment will be.

After going through a battery of tests it’s been decided what I need is…More Tests!

In the interests of full disclosure, I may use some of the money for things that aren’t’ directly cancer treatment. I’m going to try to go Montreal or Quebec City in April or May. I must get my passport stamped before I die.

I’d love to get some birthday cards this year.

Cameron G Rose

2578 Broadway #140

New York NY 10025

I’m happy to show my paperwork to anyone who wants to confirm my diagnosis. Contact me directly for information.

Thank you.

Cameron G Rose