Today marks 1 year that we lost my sister in law Beth Ann Feinberg Oettinger. I said Kaddish (mourners prayer) this morning quietly as I woke to begin my day.
My body aches with the grief today more than most because we were both diagnosed with the same rare form of bladder cancer.
I’ve discussed this with Beth’s husband Neil - but I still have brief moments of survivors guilt. How did I beat this cancer - while she fought and lost her battle ?
No blame - just the facts . I recognized a small - ulcer like discomfort in my bladder - and was able to get almost immediate diagnosis and surgical cancer removal. I listened to my body and found Doctors who would listen to me.
My story is that of disbelief. How did both of us end up with the same cancer ?
How unfair to Mark - where he heard my diagnosis through hysterical tears only months after we said goodbye to Beth ?
Life is not fair - but it’s worth fighting for- and so I continue my fight and hope that I can inspire each of you to listen to your body.
Recognize when something is “wrong “ and seek qualified medical advice.
I wish that Beth was here - and I wish that we could have celebrated our victories together.
Rest In Peace Beth.
Xo
Robyn
