Cancer is a devastating disease.

[imanamerican63]

I have lost family members, many friends and people I know in my job from the disease. Alex Trebek told the world yesterday about his courageous fight to beat his diagnosis. I for one, hopes he can beat the odds and wish him Godspeed. It makes us stop and think how simple life is and in a moment it can change at the blink of an eye.

[democratisphere]

1. If you live long enough you are likely to get some form of cancer.

I think it has always been this way throughout history. It is unfortunate that Alex Trebek didn't find out sooner.

[ronatchig]

2. Indeed the big "C"

is every bit the monster that my daughter thought it was when it stole her mother away. She passed from pancreatic 13 yrs ago and is very much missed in my world. I also wish Mr. Trebek Godspeed in his battle.

[Ohiogal]

3. Speaking as a cancer survivor (stage 3) ....

Going through that whole experience really does make you stop and appreciate and be grateful for what you have. And to not stress out over things you cannot control. I know it sounds corny, but that has been my takeaway.

[Fix The Stupid]

4. Lost my dad in 2010 to same kind of cancer.

It is the worst you can get.

Less than 10% survival rate after 5 years.

When dad was diagnosed, they brought in a gentleman who was going on 11 years after whipple procedure (google it - and be prepared to be amazed). He was the rare exception.

Dad was diagnosed in Jan. 2009. Died May 2010. Whipple procedure bought him another few months, but it is one of the most invasive, devastating procedures the human body can take. Dad had 50+ staples down the middle of his chest.

Cancer is awful.

[jcmaine72]

5. God, that's awful. I never heard of the Whipple procedure before.

I'm sorry you lost your dad.

[democrank]

6. So sorry you have lost so many to Cancer.

I still remember that moment three and a half years later. The hospice nurse took the water jug from my hands and closed our refrigerator door. “No more”, she said. “Don’t give him any more water.”

My beloved Vietnam Vet. **Agent Orange**

[imanamerican63]

7. ...