After cancer surgery, a columnist from The Troy Messenger reflected on the ongoing mental challenges of life after treatment. In a recent piece published on Aug. 21, 2025, Josh Boutwell described advice given by his radiation doctor: “Live your life, enjoy it and don’t worry about that cancer anymore.” Boutwell wrote that while he understands the intent behind the words — especially coming from a doctor who has survived cancer himself — following this guidance is not simple.
The columnist explained how, even with gratitude for his recovery, he cannot avoid qualifying it with the phrase “so far.” This attitude persists among many who have experienced serious illness. The feelings were recently amplified when Boutwell watched an interview between hip hop artist Scarface and Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinee Shannon Sharpe.
Scarface’s health struggles included kidney damage from COVID-19 and open heart surgery in 2024. During their discussion, Sharpe asked if Scarface feared dying. Scarface replied: “I’m not scared but I know that’s inevitable and I don’t want to run out of time,” to which Sharpe responded by telling him he is thinking too much about dying rather than living. Scarface admitted, “That’s my problem, I can’t get past it … I can’t focus on living.”
Boutwell said this exchange echoed conversations with his own family and doctor about focusing on what has been accomplished and looking forward instead of worrying. However, worries continue to emerge each time there is a minor health issue or medical test. He recounted anxieties ahead of a post-surgery colonoscopy where a polyp was found but tested negative for cancer cells.
Reflecting on the ordeal of waiting for biopsy results, Boutwell shared: “That week of waiting for biopsy results, though? That was agonizing. I probably asked my wife the same question a dozen times, ‘What if it’s back?’ (…) ‘I can’t get past it … I can’t focus on living.’” He concluded that writing might be part of his process to move forward.
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