Day 11 -- The Cancer Club

When I had renal cell carcinoma in 2004, I kinda felt guilty for only having surgery and not needing chemotherapy or radiation treatments.  When I would tell people about my cancer, I'd quickly add that I also had a brain aneurysm at the same time just to make sure they knew I was sick enough.  Sick enough to warrant membership in some imaginary Cancer Club.  A club of honor where people proudly wear colored ribbons.  A club my mother belonged to three times over and didn't need chemo or radiation until her third form of cancer.  In my mind the only true cancer survivors were the ones who had survived these toxic treatments.  Last night at the high school volleyball "Pink Out" night, cancer survivors were given a pink rose. I carried it proudly as I wore my pink hat w/ my survivor pins and ribbons.  I think my membership is secure.  Does this mean I'm turning into an elitist?