I was forty-eight when I was diagnosed with advanced cancer. Apart from that, I was in excellent health. I lifted weights and did cardio six days a week, lived a healthy lifestyle, and … being candid … I genuinely believed I was stronger and more fit than most of my peers.
Discovering that wasn’t the case—almost overnight—and learning that my life expectancy had suddenly shrunk by decades, and that I would only be kept alive by aggressive, ongoing hormone therapy, was a reality-shifting shock.
Fortunately, what I do for a living involves constantly reassessing assumptions about the future: about life, time horizons, and personal values. My diagnosis forced me to do just that, both professionally and personally: to reassess, reset, and recalibrate nearly everything related to my goals, plans, and resources. And to do so systematically and intentionally.
Having the tools, framework, and plans already in place and prepared for reorientation made a huge difference. It’s something I continue to be deeply grateful for.
One thing I’ve learned is this: when you make thoughtful plans under normal circumstances, it’s much easier to adapt when the unexpected brings you to your knees. Good plans, well-managed resources, and a strong team in your corner, these are essential when life veers off course.