I'm better always because I don't think about t...

1-2Years

Haydee G. on March 30, 2009

I was Diagnosed with:

Angiosarcoma vascular in spine

Employment Status:

disability

Gender/Age:

56

Type and Description of Treatments:

Medication Zometa IV monthly

How do you feel today?

I'm better always because I don't think about this.

Since the diagnosis, what has changed in your life?

Different things have changed in my life. The first is I don't work right now. I love my job because I work in the university with my students.

What is going well for you right now?

All is well. I don't have any problems.

What is not going well for you right now?

I'll do anything.

What has been the most challenging thing about having cancer?

All

When difficulties overwhelm you, where do you go for support?

I don't go to any place or any people because one time I went somewhere and they said we can't help you.

How have your long-term goals or life goals changed since diagnosis?

Everything has changed all because I have to begin the doctor and in this moment is very difficult for me. I don't work, the money that I have is not sufficient to study, I don't drive and other things.

What is your work arrangement right now? What are your hours?

Nothing because the cancer is in the spine and causes lots of pain.

Since the diagnosis, what has changed in your work life?

Everything. I can't work because the neurosurgery and oncology doctor said no.

What has helped you continue to work the most?

I said to the doctor I want to go to work in August because my life hasn't finished and I want to continue my life. I am doing the process to return to university and begin a doctorate in computers.

What advice do you have for others trying to work through treatment?

Work with treatment is very difficult because you have the side effects. When I want something I try to continue and finish my goal.

How have you dealt with any side effects of treatment?

I rest and change my foods and the hours I eat.

If "today's you" could give advice to "day-of-diagnosis you," what would you say?

The life is one and never say I can't continue. AT ALL TIMES BE POSITIVE. God is first, and family. I have a daughter and a son. Two granddaughter and a grandson. I love them and continue my life because they need me and life is pretty and God will decide when it is finished. This is my time.