It’s the only choice we have is to suck it up right? 
I can remember finding out I had kidney cancer. People would think it would really flip someone out but instead it humbled me as in I think I was more in shock but thinking ok now I have to get through this.  My Ostomy was later. Different problem and years later. I  was literally begging to have a bag to the doctors that would not help me. When i got to doctors that started helping me they were the ones who initiated the talk about giving me a bag. That part I had already decided was needed as I tried everything else and I was in extreme pain at that point. 
it’s amazing how we quickly realize we need to accept a serious diagnosis and to just go with the program. One step at a time and one day at a time. I love the shirt! I do believe that shirt was sitting there just for you. 
congrats for 5 years. Wishing you many more and healthy vibes your way. 

Five years 👏 And just look where you are now. Congratulations 

ps I love your drawers/cabinet.🤗

@john68

Thank you, John. I also decided to start wearing cute colored socks, like a friend of mine wore, bought my first pair after my first surgery. I could wear fun socks, too, I thought!

I bought the cabinet years ago when the library at the university where I worked was getting rid of them because everything is online now. When my sister-in-law saw it she said “You’re having way too much fun with this!” And that is true - I have safety pins in one drawer, stamps in another; old political campaign buttons; shoelaces; batteries; scissors; Scotch tape, etc. She was right!

Congratulations on FIVE YEARS!! Thats pretty wonderful & I love the T-shirt & colored socks too! I guess it is what it is so we do take the diagnoses & suck it up to the greater extent.  Here's to another *way more*  then five & All the best to you!

I noticed the gorgeous older cabinet also..  very Nice!!! 

Thanks so much, Linda - and best to you, too!  The Other L