Almost a year ago, a cancerous tumor nearly killed my mother where she stood. Thanksgiving and Christmas were sad affairs, heavy with worry. Things are by far better this year but still very challenging. Cancer is a real SOB. But she is magnificently tough and devoted to living.

I think of a lot of people who will spend the holidays asleep, rocked from chemo, their families in the next room putting on a brave face but deep down roiling with anger at the disease, the unfairness of it, the fact that it robs you of even the simplest, most momentary comfort

I think of these people because I suppose, while it makes me sad knowing we are in the same club that none of us wanted access to, it gives me a bit of strength to know others have tread this path too and know exactly how it feels to march forward w/a black cloud over your head

This coming holiday, I encourage you to appreciate the time you have with your family while they are healthy and happy and free of worry. From one day to the next, you literally have no idea what is in the cards for you or them. Love them. Savor these moments.

Cancer may ruin holidays or meals or festive moments that, in the past, were downright Rockwellian, but it doesn't ruin the love behind those things. Yes, it f--ks up just about everything else but this it cannot steal.

Mom, I know you see these tweets. They are for you first because I know they give you strength.
These tweets are also for anyone in the audience who needs to see they aren't alone. For anyone who needs to hear this: You Got This.

Patient and/or caregiver, take heart.

And of course above all else, F--k Cancer.