Hello Everyone,

I was diagnosed with adenoid cystic carcinoma nearly a year ago. I have had a lot of surgery and there is more to come in the next few months.

I used to have a large public life, but now, because of my facial disfigurement I have a small private life. It is however, no less happy.

I no longer work or volunteer. I do prepare delicious healthy food, exercise by jogging, joy walking and practicing yoga. I have lots of massages, and treats that pamper my soul, and I meditate everyday.

I am a learner and a good listener. I am keen to learn more about adenoid cystic cancer from people who have experienced it. I am keen to support others.

I look forward to getting to know you.

Hi Redpoppy, it sounds like you have adjusted well to what is an extremely life altering disease.
As a fellow Kiwi, I want to say hello and welcome.
Tammy.

Thank you for the warm welcome, Tamvonk.

It certainly has been a challenging experience. I am thankful for the all the support I have had from family and friends. I have made many new friends, increased my vocabulary, and taken on new learning.

In many ways this is a precious time in life. Time to reflect, appreciate, re-priotitise and think deeply. How often in your life are you given deep thinking time?

I am hopeful about the future, and think that everyone has a gift for the world, and I am currently reshaping mine.

Hi Redooppy and welcome to the neighborhood. While we have some ACC cancer survivors here, most of us are squamous cell carcinoma survivors. I love the place you are at with all this. We can all find solace and comfort that in the midst ofmthe storm, there still can be calm. Your words provide immense hope when I read them. Thank you for dropping in and bringing your sunshine and "Happy :-)". If there's anything we can do, just give a Kiwi holler. Tamvok and Alpaca have already trained us to listen and respond.

Welcome to OCF! Here you will find many survivors, mostly SCC but we do have some ACC as well. Im very glad you have joined our group!!!

Looks come and go. Everyone ages and looks will fade. One thing that doesnt change is whats inside. The most beautiful person isnt always beautiful inside. I too, am disfigured from this horrible disease. Its something only those who live thru it can fully understand what its like to be disfigured. My life now is very different than what it was before I got sick in 2007. Some days I stay in so I dont have to face being stared at. Other days I can manage it better. I go out and go about my business, ignoring everyone's stares. Ive found that by volunteering it helps me too. By helping others who are sick with all the knowledge Ive picked up over the years it helps me by keeping my mind off my own problems. I dont work anymore but do spend hours every day volunteering, maybe this is something you can do as well. You have such a wonderful attitude for someone who has been thru so much, Im sure that could help others.

Welcome from across the ditch. I see that my kiwi friends Tammy and Maureen have made contact.
Love your attitude and positive take on your situation. I don't thank I have ever seen such an optimistic first post as yours!
Also loving the Happy :-) in your signature
All the very best for your upcoming surgery.
Cheers Gabriele