CANCER GUIDE CONSULTATIONS
- A SURVIVOR'S LETTER
Mary Edmonstone

Psychotherapist Mary Edmonstone called me while on vacation in Florida, terrified by her recent diagnosis of non-small cell lung cancer. I recognized from her description of the biopsy results that a top-flight surgeon could conceivably cure her disease if the surgery occurred right away and was carried out with the requisite skill. I immediately referred her to the Chief of Thoracic Surgery at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, and suggested that she proceed without hesitation. Dr. Douglas Mathisen not only did a skillful job, he was humane, supportive, and optimistic. Sometimes, emotional support, a calm and hopeful attitude, a gentle push in the right direction, and the right referral can make all the difference. Not to mention the patient’s own healing capacities.—HD

Dear Henry:

I write this letter to you almost a year to the day that I had the surgery for lung cancer. I know that Vivian has seen you and I’m sure told you that I have an excellent prognosis—85% of no recurrence. I do believe you saved my life. I wouldn’t have known where to start or how to proceed. I will never forget how totally available you made yourself to me and I will never forget your deep kindness to me. You are a remarkable man, you became my angel. I hope you are well. I’m sure the angels look out for you in a special way. You have put so much love in the world.

With deep gratitude,

Mary Edmonstone