As my parents lived in Graaff-Reinet I was familiar with the Pink Trees for Pauline concept and have for many years supported this very good cause. For me it meant that one shows your support for those who have Cancer, but also that the various cancer associations would benefit financially.
In October 2013, I was diagnosed with MGUS. I was on treatment for one year, then had blood work done annually to make sure it did not reoccur. I did not think much about this or even the possibility that it could progress to Cancer.
In the end of 2020, my wife had Covid and was in a coma for almost a month – during this period we were informed a few times that I need to come and say my final goodbye as they did not think that she would make it. This was very traumatic for us as a family but with the grace of God, she recovered. In 2022 my M-Protein counts suddenly started to spike, and I was referred to a haematologist who confirmed I have Multiple Myeloma (MM) or better known as bone marrow Cancer.
As I was sitting in my car with tears running done my face, I prayed to God, and I told Him that I know I was not strong enough to walk this road on my own. I really cannot explain this, but it was as if all my worries were lifted from my shoulders, and I had this peaceful feeling. Then I knew, I will be fine and be able to tackle every situation that life throws at me.
I was blessed as this specific year my Medical Fund’s plan changes, which normally occurs in January, was postponed to November and I could upgrade to a better option as suggested by my doctor. Furthermore, I have the best employers one can ask for who supported me and who understood my situation. I got support from the community, my church’s minister, the Graaff-Reinet Cancer Association and many more.
My treatment was in Port Elizabeth, a 270km drive from my home. I had to drive down and back every three to four weeks. I decided that my cancer will not be a burden to carry, but a “Journey of Hope”. I made the decision to treat every step of this treatment as a journey where I always tried to see something positive or beautiful – even if it is the 26 pills, I had to drink each morning or the way the light reflects on the drip I have.
I made the decision to focus on the positive. Even though currently there is no known medical cure for MM, I am going to prove them wrong!
Did my view of Pink Trees for Pauline changed since I was diagnosed? Yes, it is a very good cause and a financial injection to associations that support cancer patients. For me if I see a tree wrapped in pink – it means I am not alone!