To some,
a cancer diagnosis is a very private thing. For me, it was the complete
opposite--I'm an oversharer by nature so it never occurred to me not to
tell people (plus, I had a supportive workplace, which I know factors
huge in this). That's how I've coped. But some people--for a number of
reasons--decide to go it alone. The most recent example of this is Chris Lofton, a basketball star at my alma mater, The University of Tennessee.
Last year Chris was diagnosed with testicular cancer and, other than
his coach, doctors and parents, told no one. Not even his extended
family or teammates. He faced surgery, radiation and all the awful
emotions that accompany a diagnosis pretty much solo (he said he didn't
want his parents hanging around campus, lest people think something was
up). He played his entire senior season--they lost in the Sweet
16...bummer since I'd picked them to go all the way--after beating the
cancer. Still, it wasn't until a few weeks ago that he decided to share his story (with ESPN.com).
First, I have to say, way to go Chris. I'm honored to be in your
company as both a former Vol and a cancer survivor. Second, I
completely understand why he kept it quiet. He didn't want to take
attention away from his team and he didn't want people to make excuses
for him (you can imagine if he missed a 3-pointer, some might say, Oh,
it must be the cancer....ugh!). But now, he hopes, his story will help
people. And it will. I only hope he didn't put himself through agony
with all the what-ifs and worries and so few people to lean on.
Anyway, wanted to hear your thoughts on this. I know a handful of other people with cancer who have chosen not to tell their employers or even their families. I cannot imagine that. Can you? --Erin
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