Ditto on all the good advice. One point I feel strongly about is the one Cheryl addresses; that is, communicating your disease to others. This is a VERY personal matter so each of us needs to make the decision that feels right for you. Some people are naturally rather closed while others are more open and sharing.

You never know what is inside people's heads. Some are outgoing and social types yet clam up about divulging their cancer situation. Full range of not sharing anything with anybody, even family. Others share everything with everyone. And everything in between and any point along the spectrum is the best for each person, there is not right, wrong, good or bad.

In my case, I have two teenagers and felt if just one child got vaccinated for HPV that otherwise would not because of all the FUD (Fear, Uncertainty, Doubt) then it was worth any personal downside. Once I felt that I might truly save one person from getting cancer, then it was a no brainer. That said, my wife and son were of a different mindset and more worried about the social ramifications by disclosing this to the community.

I built massive email lists with anyone I felt would recognize my name. One exception was I did selectively exclude a few clients with whom I felt might affect my livelihood in the short term and being independent I had to protect revenue just to keep the lights on and a home to live in.

Well, everyone survived and I did get some notes from mothers on the fence about the vaccine and at a minimum were going to have a more informed decision with their pediatricians.

At every turn, I try to use my illness in a way to help others. Just this past week, I heard about a father we've know for years as the kids grew up - he has Stage 4 prostrate cancer that has metastasized into the bones for which he is receiving radiation. I reached out to him to offer support, if nothing else, swapping cancer stories and offering some comfort.

Do keep reading here as there is much info that will help you throughout your journey.

Don