Survivor Stories: Penny Mahon’s Story

Cancer patients often rely on their pets to help them through. Like so many cancer survivors, Penny Mahon  shares a story of loneliness, pain and guilt. Indeed, our physical limitations, susceptibility to infection, and emotional turmoil leave us isolated and vulnerable. Our fur-babies provide support, companionship and unconditional love. They do for us what humans sometimes seem incapable.

A painful and lonely time . . .

During chemo, the first 5 days after treatment, it was dangerous for me to be out and about too much. Infection is a real and dangerous

possibility; so much so that we are cautioned, to stay home. In fact, during those first five days, even my children stayed out of the house.

That made for an incredibly painful and lonely time. In as much as I know I was cared about, I was still left feeling guilty and worthless.

He never left my side . . .

Pomchi Brick is the one little companion who remained by my side the whole three months.  Pomchi Brick never left my bedside. When I would get up, he followed me around the house. He was my constant companion.

For example, no matter where I went, he was with me – even to the bathroom. Pets and cancer patients can sometimes be inseparable.

Scars and pain points . . .

Pomchi Brick even seemed to know where my scars and pain points were. As I rested in bed, he would lie gently next to me being careful to avoid my all too sensitive areas.

A lot of time alone . . .

I was recently divorced and very depressed at the time, and I spent a lot of time alone. As a result, he really

helped me through these very trying times.

His constant companionship often gave me the motivation to get up and get out for a walk. Furthermore my commitment to him helped me get up and even get out of the house. His and mine.

Every morning when I woke, he would do a little happy dance to say good morning, you are just beautiful, and I am here for you.

Spending so much time alone, I would have been lost without him.

Penny

Note: If you would like to share your own story in the 1,000 Cancer Survivor Story project, please follow this link to learn how! I welcome your contributions.

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