Many readers have asked that the cancer story I did in Luann be posted, so
here it is.
When I decided to deal with cancer in Luann, I knew I'd hear from lots of
readers. And I did. I received a flood of messages from people who have cancer
(or had it) or know someone with cancer, and they were pleased to see the
subject being brought into the open. Cancer can be a terrible and frightening
disease, one that people don't like to talk about. But I believe that the best
way to cope with living with cancer, or losing someone to it, is to talk about
it.
I've always dealt with serious subjects in Luann. I feel that a comic strip
can do more than just provide a daily chuckle. But many people feel that
comics are no place for serious issues. And those readers wrote to me, too.
In fact, a group of students in Tonawanda, New York, actually formed a group -
PALS (People Against the Luann Strip) - and, picket signs in hand, staged a
protest of my strip in front of the local newspaper office. Saying "cancer
isn't funny," they objected because of a teacher of theirs who is battling
cancer. I certainly understand their feelings. I have a dear friend who's
fighting cancer. But to talk to him, you'd never know it. He's full of
optimism, high spirits and humor. In fact, he's convinced that his positive
attitude has kept him alive.
In my strip, it's Delta who has cancer. My intent was not to detail the ordeal
of treatments but to explore the ways in which cancer changes relationships. I
also hope that this story helps demystify cancer and brings some degree of
understanding and solace to those who are affected by this terrible disease.
In addition to my friend's experiences, I also contacted several organizations in my research. For further information please contact:
American Cancer Society: 1-800-ACS-2345
National Cancer Institute's Cancer Information Service: 1-800-4-CANCER
On the web, a directory of links: http://www.cancer.org/docroot/home/index.asp
Delta's Story>>
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