Red Death: A personal anecdote

Red death is the nickname cancer patients use to refer to Doxorubicin, a type of chemotherapy drug. It’s bright red, like Kool-Aid, but unlike Kool-Aid, it’s highly toxic.

I clearly remember how I felt after my first dose. I lost my appetite very fast, and I felt nauseous. My entire body dried up like a grape in the sun. I began to berate myself for not always appreciating my healthier days.

Although the side effects were not at their worst, I felt I could not return. I realized that my six months of cancer treatment were going to be long and miserable. Wake me up when it’s over, I thought.

One of my best friends phoned that evening to see how my first session had gone. I immediately expressed my torment over having to go back. I explained that a large part of me wanted to quit treatment. I wanted to go back to how I felt before cancer came into my life.

Of course, my best friend knew what to say: “The next six months will give you the rest of your life.” It was what I needed to hear.

My friend’s response taught me that facing challenges in life is important despite feeling afraid, discouraged, or defeated. I can overcome any challenge that life can bring, especially with a little help from a friend.