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WHERE I BELONG: THE BALANCE OF CANCER AND WORK

By Dr. Marni Goldenberg, Associate Professor

As many of you know, I have been battling breast cancer for the past year and a half. During Fall 2011 and Winter 2012 quarters I balanced the fine line of work and cancer treatment. When I was told that I would need to undergo chemotherapy and radiation treatment, it was not a matter of when do I stop working, but more, when will I be normal again and when can I get on with my life. During the fall quarter I underwent chemotherapy treatment and then in the winter quarter I had radiation therapy.

I know that what kept me sane and feeling normal throughout this process was working, being with students, having 'light bulb' and 'ah ha' moments, laughing on field trips (thanks RPTA 112), advising on concentrations, future careers and internships, attending RPTA 210 events, reading senior projects, and having support from students. Some people thought I was crazy to work during this challenging time and I often told them that this is where I belonged and I knew I had students and staff that supported me.

At the end of this quarter I received a card from my RPTA 101 students, who are eager and excited to get into the major and learn what RPTA is all about. This card helped emphasize the importance of what I do. Throughout the quarter I stress the importance of writing 'thank you' notes to guest speakers, but had no idea they had made a card for me. I view this card as a medal of honor for me and for all of the students who have been part of this process with me these last two quarters. I am grateful that I was able to be in the classroom with all of you. Thank you!

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