A First Anniversary

April 16th marks my 1-year anniversary of being diagnosed with stage I multiple myeloma (15% plasma cells). On the drive to my oncologist, I told my wife I was making a choice to remain positive should I receive bad news. During the past year, I've been able to maintain a positive and fairly relaxed outlook in my health situation. Although I wake up every morning and remember I have cancer, I often forget about it as the day progresses. I am very thankful the disease has stayed at stage I, and I hope I get to make a similar post a year from now. Heck... 30 years from now, really!

The year has flown by, reminding me about the importance of enjoying each day, the simple things in life, my wife and family, and my addiction to electronic gadgets. I haven't gotten the iPad yet, but man-o-man, I am tempted. I've also taken the plunge and renewed my MacWorld subscription for 2 more years. That's optimism.

So what am I doing to celebrate this big event? A blood work appointment in the morning.

Going Public - Have you?

I am approaching the 1st anniversary of my official stage I multiple myeloma diagnosis. So far (and to my knowledge), only family, a few co-workers and some random people in my community know I have cancer. I was thinking of posting this anniversary on my Facebook status on April 16th. Is this a good or a bad idea? My reasons?

• Well, I don't really care who knows anymore. 
• I would like to bring about some MM awareness.
• Surviving cancer for a year is a good thing.

Now, I realize that something like this would really publicize my health situation. I may not be considering all of the potential implications here, so I ask you, dear readers - should I or shouldn't I? When did you decide to go public with the news, or if you don't have MM, when did your loved one go public (or did you/they)? You can either comment publicly to this post, or send me a private email. The link is on the right.