Being a new cancer patient I haven’t been able to use my “cancer card” for it’s full potential. However, I have already come up with a theory; when you have cancer you are part of an elite club where your needs are put before anyone else’s. What I mean is that the patients on my floor have it better than all the others. Instead of focusing on why this is bullshit and moping about being chemo’s bitch I wanted to share several of pros that come with my stay on the cancer floor.

1. Free shit

I guess when you have a diagnosis that doesn’t have a one-hundred percent survival rate other people donate items that they feel will help battle the annoyance that is cancer. Whether it be toiletries, books, blankets, girl scout cookies, or cards with encouraging messages they do everything to make the patients here feel more comfortable during their inpatient stay. Honestly, it’s amazing what people will do to help the dying kids feel at home. I watch as the smallest patients light up when they receive small toys or anything sweet. I have been here for seventeen days and I can say with assurance that the people who take the time to send my floor mates as well as myself are the most thoughtful, inspiring people I have ever met. Whether sending a hair loss pack (lint roller, body markers, and beanie included), small games to keep busy, or my personal favorite, gift cards (hint* great gift for when the hospital food tastes gross) these mysterious donors are always on top of it.

2. Friends

If you are above the age of 26 walking through the oncology halls here in Cincinnati you would be considered old. Surprised? I was too. Most of the nurses that are in charge of my care throughout my cancer are my age. I like this situation because I get to talk and act my age regardless of the fact that this is a children’s hospital. You would think as an aspiring elementary school teacher I would be playing blocks on the floor or making homemade crafts but most young patients are under isolation (can’t leave the room for risk of infection) or grumpy from all the steroids (roid rage is real). Now I have met some patients that i know and talk to when we pass in the halls, but for the most part I am in my room sitting and talking to the nurse that is in charge of me for the day.

3. New perspective

Even before finding out that I have cancer I have tried to remain a positive person and look at who people really are before judging them because I have seen and been through a lot more than you average twenty-one year old. However, staying on this floor has given me a better understanding of what it means to be brave and grateful for all that I have been offered in life. The most inspiring stories to me are the ones that the parents have to share. These people are here twenty-four seven taking care of their children and not knowing for a fact that their daughter or son’s treatment won’t take a turn for the worst at any given hour. They pause their lives and give up so many experiences that could have been. This is the same for the children battling cancer who are stuck laying in a hospital bed for a year or more of their young lives. What surprises me about the parents and patients is their unfaltering hope and kindness. One would assume that these people are bitter and constantly walking around cursing whatever luck put them in this situation when that is simply not the case. Everyone shares extra sweets. talks for hours in the lounges, and goes out of their way to help support all the other inpatient families. The hopefulness and desire to get well is what makes the oncology floor one of the most comforting floors regardless of what is being treated here. These families and patients are what help me notice even though my situation sucks and I’m going to feel bitter about it that I am not doing this alone. The only thing I can do to help me get through this is to stay determined and optimistic.

Peace, Love, & Fuck Cancer,

Katie Voytek

PS. This is the only time I will ask for something but if anyone would want to send gift cards to restaurants I would love you forever….hospital food is crap.