The "C Word" explained

My previous post was an account from my father about his experience with cancer.  Although he has been in remission for many years, we recently had a scare which has brought back many memories and emotions about this event.

It is interesting to realize that much of who we are (my family), how we view the world, and how we treat the people around us has been shaped by this experience.  As I read the transcript (from my previous post), I could hear the the changes in my father.  He was in the process of being forever changed.

Why  am I speaking about this/ was I effected?
Although I was quite young at the time (in first grade), my mother points back to this time as a defining moment in my life.  As the oldest child, I already thought I was an adult and would often spend more time talking to adults than other children (I was "that kid".)  My parents tried to shelter me and filter the information I learned, but I was very much aware of what was going on.  I became much more serious.  A previously outgoing and friendly child, I became quite introverted; listening more than I spoke.
Part of why I am writing this is to make aware the affect on children. 

So how does "Cancer" still affect us?

For one thing, because my Father's illness was so widely known, we have become the family that is turned to for understanding and comfort during others' fight with cancer.  We have spent many hours in hospital rooms and with families during this time.  Deep friendships and love have been formed through this process.

Our perspective (about everything, really) has been shaped through this experience.  There is peace to be found.  There is comfort now.  There is a purpose for everything.  There is life after death.