Kristine Setting Clark

Death Was Never An Option! Kristine Setting Clark

In May of 1977 I had reached all of life's goals I had set for myself. I had a wonderful husband, two beautiful, healthy children, a boy and recently a girl, and a career as a college physical education instructor. I lived in a typical, suburban neighborhood with a station wagon and a dog. I was financially stable - the world was at my feet. My only problem was an annoying cough that for some reason wouldn't go away. A month later I would find that my perfect world was about to be shattered. In fact, it had come crashing down upon me. I was diagnosed with Stage IV of Hodgkin's Disease, lymphatic cancer, and was told that at that time that I had only three months to live. Suddenly I was faced with the challenge of a lifetime. I underwent major surgery, massive radiation treatments, grueling chemotherapy and worst of all ten months of blindness. Through it all I refused to let the disease get the better of me, continuing to participate fully in my life as a wife, mother and career woman. To me, humor and staying in good physical shape would become the two most important components for facing this insidious enemy. From diagnosis through recovery and on to a rich rewarding transformed life, Death Was Never An Options! is a straightforward and honest, often moving and surprisingly funny look into a andid account of a battle with cancer and loss of sight. Moments of fear, frustration, embarrassment, love, and joy are captured on each page. Approaching every obstacle with optimism and humor, this story celebrates life and the ultimate triumph of a passionate and determined woman. Most of us either know someone who has had cancer or have experienced the frightening disease ourselves. It is now possible to take a humorous look at a serious subject with a happy ending. Death Was Never An Option! is an inspirational chronicle of one woman's determination and perseverance through a life-threatening experience. As the author I feel that this story conveys a unique, personal perspective into the insidious disease to which we all are prey. The ability to learn about, acknowledge and defy the cancer shines through what would otherwise be a dark journey. I recommend this story to all who need encouragement and hope.