Truly NO one knows if they are cancer "free" at any time.

The only thing we can be resonably sure of is when we have a diagnosis of cancer because it is seen.

I usually respond with "as far as my Dr. knows" "my Dr. thinks so" or "I sure hope so". when asked these questions. I think that conveys some of the stress/joy we live with.

I don't like to be too optimistic either, just in case I need their support again. smile

Finally, I think we need to talk about all this superstition! I still have a 2 1/2 year old stack of thank-you notes that I cannot bring myself to mail! I do not dare to tell them anything like "cured" it's like asking the Fates to jump in and mess me up again. Emily Post is spinning right now because of it.

Mark, 21 Year survivor, SCC right tonsil, 3 nodes positive, one with extra-capsular spread. I never asked what stage (would have scared me anyway) Right side tonsillectomy, radical neck dissection right side, maximum radiation to both sides, no chemo, no PEG, age 40 when diagnosed.