Craig W

About Craig W

When my husband, Craig Wood, was diagnosed with metastasized prostate cancer, nothing was ever the same again. Craig said we were going to live as we normally had, but cancer was with us from that time on. We were fortunate that he was very physically fit and strong for what was to come. Craig was a lifetime runner and retired Marine who had continued to stay in shape. His father had died of cancer at forty-nine, so Craig had always lived with the possibility that he too could face cancer. His immediate response was that he was ready for this fight. Another plus was that we had a very strong, loving relationship without any resentments or anger between us.

We decided to go to MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. This was an eight hour drive each way, so we committed a lot of travel time. I was not so strong and cried a lot. Craig designated out house a “no cry zone” and insisted we keep a positive attitude. I spent all my time reading about prostate cancer, pursuing both traditional and nontraditional treatments. We were able to get a good team of doctors at MD Anderson. His oncologist was one of the very few doctors who specialized in aggressive small cell prostate cancer. We also had a radiologist and surgeon who worked exclusively with prostate cancer. MD Anderson had a supplemental cancer department where we learned about diet, exercise and meditation. We made two trips to Vermont for week long sessions on using meditation to focus the mind on fighting cancer. We also made changes in our meals and Craig began drinking green vegetables in a smoothie. He continued his exercise regime.

The first three years, Craig remained very strong despite surgery and several doses of radiation and just about every chemotherapy that could possibly help. We were able to continue to travel, including two month long motorcycle trips. The last year and a half, Craig became even weaker and I gradually shifted into the role of a caretaker. In addition to trying to make his life as comfortable as possible, I did things I had never done before. I began doing all the driving, small home repairs, carrying up groceries, pumping gas and taking care of the lawn. As he continued to become weaker, I helped him dress and get in the bathroom. I was desperate for a miracle that would allow Craig to live. I was eager to do anything that would help him. My life gradually became completely filled with taking Craig to medical appointments and caring for him at home. I would have had it no other way.

We were fortunate to have a loving and supportive family who helped in so many ways. Craig loved to see the family and drew strength from their presence. Our granddaughter, Shannon, started a group called “AWARE.” She raised money to fight prostate cancer. She was, and still is, very active in fighting for a cure. Our children and grandchildren were all here for his last Christmas and he said is was the best Christmas he ever had. He was weak, but very happy.

Craig lived four and a half years with cancer. He was always positive and never complained about pain. He constantly thanked me for my care. I was fortunate in life and in his death to have a wonderful husband who I miss everyday.

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