Thoughts draw inward
And the heart quickens.
Fear envelops you
As the plot thickens;
"Did he just say... cancer?"

It is a worry that follows us
Throughout our lives,
Avoiding carcinogens,
As we struggle to survive,
In a world that tries to claim us from day one.

The roots of the disease
Can be seen in their eyes.
The sheer terror invoked
Is not easily disguised,
As victims travel the lonely road.

Friends have not gathered,
And the family is scattered,
And the hospital room is dreary and plain.
They are left to themselves,
Dreams on the shelves,
As they stare through the window at the rain.

No disease causes greater isolation.
No sickness inspires greater desperation.
There is nothing with such overwhelming odds.
You are soon approached by a minister,
To help you fight an enemy so sinister,
That spirituality seems like the only way.

Bring on the legions of medicine,
To help you fight the fight.
Pray that a nurse stops by the room,
To help you through the night.

Chemotherapy and radiation,
Monoclonal antibodies and meditation,
Usher in the age of hope.
Surgery and drugs,
Somebody give me a hug,
For it is human contact that keeps me alive.

Your hair is gone
And they've taken a breast.
You wonder when they're coming back,
To claim the rest,
And the lonely road... gets lonlier still.

But as I look into your eyes,
And see the fear that you harbor there,
I will ask you to trust me,
And to know that I care.

For the trials that you face,
I will be your shield.
I will fight by your side,
On the battlefield.

My arms are strong,
And my patience is long,
My heart is with yours on the line.
I offer drink when you thirst,
And food when you can eat.
I'll help you stand tall,
And we will not retreat,
And together...the battle will be joined.