MY BATTLE AGAINST CANCER- ROUND 2

I learned early last week the noodule located on the prostate is a metastasis of the orginal colon-rectal cancer I had 5 years ago. All the Doctors were totatly surprised by this most unusual occurence. Early indications are that the lesion is localized.I have been re-referred to my original oncology team. Initially devastatested by this unexpected development I have managed to beat off feelings of despair, and thoughts of my immediate demise, with optimism that this second battle with cancer will be won with determination,faith,communal support, and the help of my excellent health team. I am trying to maintain a normal work schedule, my daily walks, and some socialization ,given the limits imposed by Co-Void restrictions. On a more positive note I was able to receive my third dose of Pfizer and thus feel better protected as I enter hospitals on a regular basis. After consultations with my oncology team I will know more regarding treatment plans. I remain hopeful,alive,willing and able to engage the life I have been given.

DOUBLE BAGGING IT-MY SECOND BATTLE WITH CANCER

THe weather,damp.rainy,and cold penetrating my body,matching my mood today, as I wrestle with the hand I am dealt. . Sept/2021-afterwaiting 1 year, because of the Co-Vid 19 pandemic currently playing out in Canada, I go for a PET scan which will ultimately predict my future. The test,the most sophisticated scan avalable for cancer screening, was necesitated by a series of abnormal blood tests. During the screening, I encounter problems emptying my bladder, which is necessary to get a clear picture.In their need for haste,there are only 2 active PET scans in Ontario, I am given Latix, a diuretic to encourage me to urinate. It works and the test is completed. One week latter I learn via My Chart, a digital file attached to the hospital, that I am cancer free but there is some "activity" near the prostate that needs to be further investigated. Approximately 2 weeks later I find myself in the Emergency Department at my nearby teaching hospital. Despite a week of antibiotics I cannot urinate.After an reasonable wait(3hours) I am seen and a catheter inserted thereby releasing 2 litres of liquid waste. Subsequently I request an appointment with the urology surgeon I had 5 years ago.HIs nurse says he is not taking new patients.I implore,beg,plea for him to see me.Out of the kindness of his heart he agrees. When I see him I tell him he is a real mentsch(honourable man.) During the past 5 years I have been closely monitored following my bout with colon-rectal cancer.THis past year, the blood test which is a marker for colon-rectal cancer has been elevated and the Doctors were unable to find out why? The answer seems clear now. Next week I meet with the urology surgeon to discuss my test results,diagnosis and treatment options. At this juncture I need more information. At this stage I am in a waiting period.As is my ways, I seek information from a prominent retired urology surgeon, who is also a close friend of my sister.He explains my options,possible diagnosis,and treatment plan in great details. He has the patience of a saint.I am indeed fortunate to have access to such well informed sources. I now have the information I need to ask the correct questions and to feel more in control of my life.Emotionally I oscilate between feelings of despair and hopefulness.I am in the middle of a process, whose outcome is uncertain.What I fear are further limitations, Who would have thought I would be tested again. Clearly G-d thinks I am made of the right stuff to be able to handle this crisis. I remain optomistic,hopeful awaiting the results of my biopsy.

Gratitude To Our Amazing COVID-19 Health Care Workers

As a practising clinical psychologist and senior citizen, I wish to express my sincerest gratitude to all the health care workers who have worked so hard to keep us safe.In particular, I want to express my thanks to our pharmacists,who have demonstrated compassion, professionalism,and calmness in dealing with the recent demand for CoVID-19 vaccinations. Recently I became eligible for my second dose of vaccine. Efforts to access the provincial booking line proved frustrating and futile.This is where the pharmacists stepped into the abyss and saved the day. In my particular case,I was able to obtain my second dose at my local pharamacy, 48 hours after my initial contact.Subsequently I have received numerous offers of vaccines from other pharamacys in the area. Thank you to all the pharmacists who have done double duty during this pandemic.In the language of my forefathers, you have performed a real "mitzvah'(blessing) and society owes you a great deal of gratitude and thanks. Dr.David Nozick

DECEMBER5/2020-MY 75th Birthday

What does it mean to me to turn 75,three quarters of a century old,late stage of the fourth quarter of my life?  

First thought and emotion, I am glad to be alive,to have been blessed to reach this stage of life.

 SHEHECHEYANU 

"Praise to you,Adonai our G-d,Sovereign of the universe,for giving us life,sustaining us, and enabling us to reach this season." 

My paternal DNA is saturated with heart disease, leading to a shortened lifespan to most males in my father's family. My maternal DNA, on the other,despite physical and emotional challenges,has possibilities, as my mother lived well into her late 80's

 Having made it to 75,I am well aware of my blessings of apparent  good health,the mental and physical capacity to continue practicing my craft,a multitude of family and friends who give a damn about me, and interests and passions that allow me to grow. Above else it is the relationships with my significant other, family and friends that propel me forward.

 At this stage of life,hopefully you have acquired a set of values,that bring you a perspective on life,and dare I say it "wisdom".Wisdom means experiencing inner peace and knowing one's priorities.No longer do I seek out materialistic gains but rather spiritual and emotional connections.Knowing one's priorities makes life simpler 

I no longer need to impress others or seek their approval.My life ,at this stage, is mine and whom I chose to share it, is my decision Roles no longer exist for me,I chose to follow my own beat of the drums and pursue life as I see fit.

 Having this perspective on life allows me to be a mentor to the younger generation,whether it be my clients,colleagues or grandchildren.I do this through personal interactions,my blogs,lectures or just plain frank conversation. 

My 6 adorable grandchildren have allowed me to be a part of their lives,which I am extremely grateful.My children tell me that as I age I have lost my filter.I prefer to look at as talking from the heart with no BS. 

In my latter stage of life, I have no patience for individuals who manipulate or dictate but seek others who talk from the heart, are compassionate, non-judgmental and listen.

 Time is short. I intend to grow,to offer wisdom to the next generation,and to try to live my life in a meaningful manner. 

 David