Everything changed 6 months ago. Michael had been experiencing persistent headaches and fatigue. We attributed it to stress and overwork until he collapsed during a morning run. The diagnosis was swift and brutal. stage 4 brain cancer. The prognosis was 6 months to a year with treatment. Without it, less.

I called my parents immediately, my voice breaking as I shared the devastating news. Oh, that is terrible, my mother said, her tone conveying moderate concern at best. Have you gotten a second opinion? Doctors are always so dramatic. Mom, we saw three specialists. They all said the same thing. Well, these things sometimes resolve themselves. Stay positive. Oh, before I forget, Rachel just told us she thinks her boyfriend will propose soon. We might be planning a wedding. The conversation shifted to Rachel’s relationship. My husband’s terminal diagnosis already forgotten. I hung up, feeling hollow, though not surprised.