Amen, Omen

What started as a whisper slowly turned into a scream. Searching for an answer where the question is unseen.

Amen, Omen is one of my favorite Ben Harper songs. It speaks to me of how someone becomes a part of you. How all of us are mortal and how we must face this as part of the process of actually living.

Managing my life over the last six weeks makes “The Arab Spring” come to mind, in that it has been so monumental in terms of change, that it needs no less of a distinction to the power of change and challenges.

I learned yesterday that I have cancer. Another mole, removed last week, came back again as melanoma, but this time with cancer. My last day of being the sweet young age of 33, and I learn I have cancer. Not exactly what you are expecting for a Birthday surprise.

I’ll be having another surgery next week, to remove the cancer that has been identified, and remove my trademark birthmark and all other freckles that might be of any possible risk. Needless to say, I’m not looking forward to going through another surgery alone, but I also feel extremely lucky.

I’ve always been on top of my skin’s risk, but this was caught very early on. Had it been last year at this time, I would have been trekking around Congo and risking a great deal more than encounters with rebels.

I know my adventures as of late have been far from exotic, but I also feel it is important to share. To remind people to take care in the sun and take care to get checked regularly.

Miel

8 Comments

  1. Sky McLaughlin on June 19, 2011 at 4:14 am

    Dear beautiful Miel,

    I’m so sorry – what a rough time you are having these days. First the loss of your father and now this shocking news. And on your birthday too. I am with you in spirit everyday and am here for you all the time. Sending love, health and happiness your way. And a happy birthday, too! Love Sky

  2. Folly on June 19, 2011 at 2:43 pm

    You are an inspiration to me in how you approach and live your life. I love reading about your adventures and your experiences.

    That said, I’m so sorry to hear about the recent loss of your father and finding out about cancer. I’m just a stranger who has been repeatedly touched by your shared experiences, and I wanted to let you know you have more friends than you might think rooting for you out in the void.

    My thoughts are with you in this difficult time.

  3. Ms. Miel on June 20, 2011 at 3:49 am

    Sky – Fabulous to talk with you today. Great to have friends around the globe. You are truly one of the most genuine friends I’ve encountered and appreciate you for everything you are. Thanks for your support.

    Love,

    Miel

  4. Ms. Miel on June 20, 2011 at 3:51 am

    Folly – Can’t tell you how much your comments means to me. Good to know my supporters run far and wide.

    Cheers,

    Miel

  5. Darcy Cronin on June 20, 2011 at 7:45 pm

    Just spent my lunch researching melanoma…at least you caught it early…still no fun…I have my annual check-up this afternoon…

    Wishing you healing and health.

    All my love,
    Darcy

  6. Darcy Cronin on June 20, 2011 at 7:46 pm

    Just spent my lunch researching melanoma…sure glad you caught it early…I have my annual skin exam this afternoon…

    Wishing you healing and health, can’t wait to see you in Oregon.

    All my love,
    Darcy

  7. Eli on June 21, 2011 at 11:02 pm

    Happy belated Birthday Miss Miel, you are always in our thoughts and prayers. Was a pleasure to see you last month, If only briefly.Fuck that cancer. We’ll put you right, and know you have us all at your back.

    – Eli in Boulder, CO

  8. Ms. Miel on June 21, 2011 at 11:17 pm

    Eli – You totally did the trick in cracking me up. You know me, I’ll take challenge head on. Don’t worry about me, but think good thoughts!

    Miel

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