Cancer and the Holidays
Posted December 17th, 2014
Bob Riter
The first few months of living with cancer are weird. This sensation is even more intense during the holiday season.
Should People with Alzheimer’s be Treated for Cancer?
Posted November 21st, 2014
Bob Riter
A woman recently told me that she had a friend with Alzheimer’s disease who was being treated for cancer. She asked me if that was the right thing to do.
The Most Aggressive Treatment is Not Always Best
Posted November 10th, 2014
Bob Riter
There’s a bit of cowboy in many of us when we’re diagnosed with cancer. Often our first response is to want the cancer removed right away with the most aggressive surgery possible.
Cancer on Your Own Terms
Posted October 29th, 2014
Bob Riter
Bob Riter discusses why there is no single best path through cancer.
When the Boss has Cancer
Posted October 6th, 2014
Bob Riter
I recently received a phone call that went like this: “My boss is struggling with cancer, but he clearly doesn’t want to talk about it or even acknowledge how ill he is. I’m concerned about him, but I’m also concerned about everyone else who works here.
Head and Neck Cancers are Especially Difficult
Posted September 25th, 2014
Bob Riter
If I’m in a support group, I always shut down conversations that begins with, “My cancer is worse than your cancer.” Those conversations are always pointless because every cancer is life-altering and potentially life-threatening. But one type of cancer does present exceptional challenges during treatment and recovery. These cancers are head and neck cancers, and […]
Writing About Cancer
Posted September 23rd, 2014
Bob Riter
When I began writing this newspaper column about cancer, I wondered how long it could last. After all, how many story ideas about cancer could there be? Seven years later, the ideas keep coming and I’m still writing. I’ve decided that writing about cancer is writing about life. Cancer is a lens that makes life […]
Cancer Caregivers Need a Break
Posted August 28th, 2014
Bob Riter
As we get ready for a long weekend, Bob offers some encouragement for cancer caregivers to remember to care for themselves.
Common Phrases Heard at the Cancer Resource Center
Posted August 11th, 2014
Bob Riter
Although every situation is unique, I often hear certain common phrases repeated on a regular basis at the cancer resource center.
When a Friend has Cancer, Just Listen
Posted July 30th, 2014
Bob Riter
At the Cancer Resource Center, we try to keep our mouths shut, and to listen without judgment or agenda. Most of us instinctively try to reassure the person with cancer, share our own experiences, or otherwise just talk. When a friend has cancer, just listen.