Originally posted to The Spectacular Comeback of AW – Facebook Page – May6, 2009
So not that I am looking to start some.Tumor Humour.. however this has been an interesting discussion point with loved ones for me, over the past few days. A good friend, Marc Rigaux and I were catching up – we were suppose to connect weekend of the 24th when he was in Calgary – unfortunately we missed each other. We started chatting and he apologized that we didn’t connect and I say ‘No big deal – I was in hospital”. Then of course the story has to begin which is tough to answer the “What Happened” – question. It’s hard to not be too non chalant “Oh I have been having headaches and it turns out it was a brain tumor – so I was admitted to hospital and had brain surgery on Friday. But I am home now and things look good – How are things with you…”
Marc, concerned of course, asked more questions and we chatted. He says well “It’s great that you still have a good sense of Tumor Humour” which I concured and also felt, being the ever event planner, that the line makes a nice theme and discussion point. I think it has been obvious, that during this period, as in most periods, I tend to take the light approach and jokes, particularly at my expense are never off the table. Especially when there are still unknowns, it’s good to be able to celebrate all the wonderful successes I have had during this period and also celebrate the wonderful company that I am keeping.
As I am recovering, the “seriousness’ of the situation is becoming a little more evident – I am becoming more aware, and sensitive that sometimes it’s ok to be serious and maybe, sometimes it is too soon and also that the words “Brain, Tumor, Surgery” combined together really don’t bring feelings of security, hope and optimism. Humour is all very personal and for some people, I understand that maybe not the best way to manage questions – One of my favourite sayings is that you can never make a bad decision – just decision with consequences and you have to determine which ones you can live with. For me, it’s natural to be I guess, more cavalier and jokey about this situation – it’s really not about being brave – I think it is just more about being cavalier and natural which seems easiest. So the idea of Tumor Humour seemed like a very good way to conceptualize my conversation
All that being aside, I did want to throw out the Pink Elephant in the room, that says “Should I be making jokes.” I say, because the elephant is pink and wearing a tutu (at least the one I see) and because the phrase Tumor Humour rhymes, then tumor humour, under appropriate circumstances and with the right people, might just be ok and I will spread the Tumor Humour where I can. But I know that just like the elephant, humour is in the eye of the beholder, and will trust all of you to tip me off when the humour runs a muck