Start here: Why a "health blog"?

On Friday, April 10, 2009 (a little over a week ago as I write this...) my E/N/T (that's ear/nose/throat) doctor called to tell me that the biopsy of a lymph node removed from my neck contained squamous cells that were cancerous. The cells originated from somewhere in my head/neck area -- some place other than the lymph node itself. (In future postings, I'll define and/or explain the new jargon, concepts and gizmos that are entering my life as a result of this diagnosis.)

In telling my family and friends about this diagnosis, I have found a deep and deeply nourishing well of compassion, love and support. While I don't recommend getting a cancer diagnosis, I must say that my life is considerably richer as a result of my new situation.

I've also had requests from a far-flung group of supporters to keep them informed as to how I'm doing. They tell me they want to know everything. So, rather than trying to telephone and/or e-mail dozens of people trying to keep them up-to-date, I've initiated this blog.

In it, I hope to keep everyone who visits up-to-date on my health, but I also plan wander a good deal farther afield: what the technology is like that's being used in my behalf. What the doctors and other health professionals are like that are taking care of me. How this life-changing episode in my life started. What I'm thinking about life and death, sickness and health. That sort of stuff.

The diagnosis has given me a new clarity that has been a precious gift. Things that seemed so important only days ago have drifted off my radar screen entirely. Other things that I've been taking for granted now lead me to a place of profound gratitude and peace. I want to share this as well.

Thank you again for coming. I hope to keep this blog interesting, informative, and -- as often as I can -- funny. And I invite all of you to comment on what you see written here. (Some of the blog procdeures may seem a bit arcane. Please let me know at the e-mail address below if you're struggling to comment on a posting.)

My e-mail address is GotaJugl@msn.com If you'd rather send me an e-mail than comment on a posting, please do that. I'd love to hear from you.