 Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts)
Joined: Apr 2005 Posts: 2,219 | My simplistic answer is that you are a survivor from the minute that your diagnosis is made.
Although I am past the five year mark, I did not celebrate that day any more than any other day. To me every day is a milestone and another one that I have cheated death. When I was diagnosed I never thought I would see my 60th birthday. Now I'm on Medicare, retired and livng in a brand new home.
I guess that makes me a survivor.
Jerry
Retired Dentist, 59 years old at diagnosis. SCC of the left lateral border of the tongue (Stage I). Partial glossectomy and 30 nodes removed, 4/6/05. Nodes all clear. No chemo no radiation 18 year survivor.
"Whatever doesn't kill me, makes me stronger"
| 
