7) My cancer breaks my heart because it breaks my mother’s heart. Because it puts the weight of constant worry on my husband’s shoulders, and makes my son wonder how long his mother is going to be alive.

8) My cancer has been the gateway to a world of new experiences. Blogging. Reiki. Touring New England and appearing onstage with the cast of Bosom Buddies, offshoot of a survivors’ writing group. Donning a crash helmet and climbing through the trees, part of a survivors’ retreat ropes course. Doing volunteer work that’s become more important to me than my 30-year career as a journalist/author ever was.

9) My cancer isn’t painful memories. It’s the pleasure of lasting friendships made in waiting rooms and infusion suites, at survivor days and here, online.   

10) My cancer reminds me every day to relax, enjoy, and LIVE. I’m determined that happiness—not sorrow—will mark all the rest of my days, however many remain.

Good-Bye, Leroy Sievers. Please share your thoughts on "My Cancer" and tributes to Leroy in the comments section below.