The Reason I Wrote 'Cancer Became Twenty Percent of My Life' — One Thing I Don't Want You to Misunderstand

"Cancer became twenty percent of my life."

Thank you so much for reading this article.

This article summarizes my journey from the cancer diagnosis, treatment, surgery, recurrence, and prognosis, to the present day, as a single story.

There is a reason I compiled it into one article.

It is because I wanted you to read not just "what happened," but also what I felt, what I thought, and how I arrived at where I am today, as a continuous flow.

However, there is one thing I do not want you to misunderstand.

This article is not intended to convey that "you don't need to undergo standard treatment."

I have repeatedly discussed things with my attending physician, confirming my medical condition, test results, and treatment options at each stage, and have decided on the timing of my treatment in my own way.

The phrase I wrote in the article, "I decide the timing of my treatment myself," is also my own personal progression after repeated consultations with my doctor.

It is by no means a recommendation for anyone else to make the same choices.

And there is one more thing I wanted to convey.

Cancer does not end once treatment is over.

There are days spent facing the aftereffects.

There is the anxiety of recurrence.

There are times when my heart feels restless every time the day of a check-up approaches.

That is why I do not want to convey that "everything will be fine even if you get cancer."

I would be happy if this story could serve as an opportunity to cherish the time you can spend in good health.

And I also hope that if you notice any concerning changes in your physical condition, it will serve as an opportunity to visit a medical institution early, rather than thinking, "It will probably be fine."

Whether it is through daily meals, exercise, sleep, or simply caring for your own body, anything is fine.

It was only after I became ill that I realized the ordinary daily life I have now is by no means something to be taken for granted.

Of course, cancer is not a disease that can be prevented solely by lifestyle habits.

Even so, I believe there is meaning in taking care of your own body.

If this story can become an opportunity for someone to cherish the time they can spend in good health and to think about living today to the fullest, there is nothing that would make me happier.