Faith and Hope with GBM
By: Lynn, Optune GioTM patient
Before
To be quite honest, before I was diagnosed with glioblastoma (GBM), it was difficult to pinpoint the role that my faith, Judaism, played in my life.
I always held the belief that G-d was a spark within me and within every person and could be called upon when needed.
But when my life was going along smoothly, I didn’t think much about G-d.
It wasn’t until I was diagnosed that I looked inward and searched for that spark to help me. Like the saying goes, “There are no atheists in foxholes,” which means people become more faithful in times of fear or uncertainty.
Well, that’s how it was for me.
Faith comes in different forms
Of course, after I was diagnosed with GBM, my faith was often on my mind.
I remember when I first started Optune Gio and had to shave my hair (which had been long and red my entire life), a rabbi from my synagogue gave me a blessing for healing.
Having optimism for my life with Optune Gio is, in a way, like an act of faith. Faith in my medical team, my treatment plan, and myself.
In times of fear
Shortly after starting Optune Gio, I was invited to attend a weekly Torah study group (a forum) where we learn, discuss, and interpret a prescribed portion of the Old Testament each week. This learning really resonated with me. The more I learned, the more I thought about my faith and the more hope I had and still have that everything will be okay.
I spent time reflecting on G-d and Judaism, and soon, I found that spark I’d been searching for.
In addition to attending the weekly study group, I occasionally meditate and write about my experiences. Every morning, I thank G-d for restoring my soul and giving me another day of life. Living with GBM and Optune Gio isn’t always easy, but I am grateful for the time I have. And before bed, I recite the Shema, the most important prayer in my religion, acknowledging that G-d is One and the One protecting me forever and ever.