It is during my times of great suffering, of feeling alone and scared, that I find my deepest sense of faith - when I actually feel the presence of something much greater than me, encouraging me to take the next right step.

Being afraid is one thing. Being alone and afraid is far worse. Find others who understand your fears and problems.

I choose not to be bitter and angry because I feel there is a bigger message that I am supposed to share beyond the fact that I have cancer.

Honesty is the best approach - and some understanding of how cancer patients see their illness can help. Cliched terms and thoughtless positives don't work, such as, 'You look good, though.' 'At least you got the good cancer.' 'Be strong.' 'You got this.' 'This is just a season.

Once you have faced what could kill you, there's no going back.