Life as a Cancer Survivor / Warrior
There are few words out there that more terrifying and unnerving than you have cancer. For over 30 years, I've taken those words and fought back any way I can, for I am a cancer survivor. I've been fighting ever since I was diagnosed at 3 years old. And I must say this, cancer chose the wrong person to pick a fight with.
For the people that know me best, they've heard what my story was: 3 years of chemo, radiation, hospitalizations, infections, and many many more years of check-ups and physicals. I can still smell the alcohol pads, feel the cold of the dark brown Betadine swirls on my chest, see the rubber tubing of the medication lines protruding from my chest. For 30 years, I've fought for a future, for tomorrow to come and shine just a little bit brighter.
I've said: Cancer does not judge. It doesn’t discriminate. It doesn’t care about age, race, color of skin, or sex. It doesn’t care about family and friends. It doesn’t care who it takes, or who is left behind. But I do. I’ve been there. I am a cancer survivor, and I am a warrior.
Because of cancer, I’ve lost. I've lost way too many friends, way too many family members, way too many GOOD people. But because of my choice to fight back against cancer, I’ve gained so much too. I’ve met people with incredible and amazing stories. I’ve experienced more than I could have ever dream of. I've seen the best in the worst of times. I don't fight back against cancer for the sympathy. I fight so my battle isn't one of loss and depression, but rather of hope and courage. I fight because the effort I put in saves lives. I wouldn't be alive if someone else years ago hadn't thought the same thing.
I've walked and ridden hundreds of miles over the years, raising thousands of dollars through various organizations, and advocated to keep fighting against a relentless disease that definitely fights dirty.
I cannot over-express the importance of this ride. It is more than just a bike ride. The funds we raise save lives, as ground-breaking research and treatments are discovered right here in WNY. This event brings us together as families and as a community. This event provides hope. This event makes a difference right here, right now.
But I cannot make a difference without your help.
Casey Dahlstrom