Sometimes it takes a chance encounter to jolt me back into the reality and realization that there is much, much more to life than what exists within that “box” that we all define for ourselves. For some, the “box” we limit ourselves to is just oursevles, or family and friends, triathlons and training, in some cases, a job (although most bosses of triathletes may argue with that one).
However, its important to understand and appreciate that there is so much more going on in life than just what exists in our own “boxes”.
I like to think as a doctor that hopefully I’ve developed a little more sense or understanding of this. Patients come into my life for a variety of reasons, some self-limiting that will get better with just a little time and rest, others with a life-changing and perspection altering disease that not only changes their view of life, but that of the people around them. However, I think I’m just as guilty as most where I don’t always realize when someone like this walks into or past my own little “box” of life. Too busy, focused on other “things” in the box, I’m sure I don’t always bother to cast my gaze outward to notice when these events occur.
Fortunately, I was paying attention for some reason this past Tuesday at the Triathlon Club of San Diego meeting with Chris Carmichael. Otherwise I would have never met the “man with the mask.”
Don’t know if other people noticed the tall bald-headed newcomer (not to be confused with the recently golden locks-shorn Buck) at the meeting wearing the surgical mask. It was the first time I had seen him at a Tri Club event. I didn’t think much about him in the hectic controlled “chaos” I feel when we host one of these events. Maybe a “Hope he doesn’t have TB or H1N1″ though crossed my mind as I returned my focus back to my own little “box”…
Chris Carmichael with Clayton Treska
At the end of the meeting, when most everyone had left, and just a few people were helping clean up, I noticed that the “surigcal masked guy” was still there, talking to Chris Carmichael and Bob Babbitt. Carmichael had an interesting look on his face as the “surgical mask guy” talked to him. Finally heading over to their group, I met Marine SSgt Clayton Treska for the first time.
Clayton is battling stage 4 testicular cancer. If you’re not familar with cancer staging, the higher the number, the further the disease has spread. Stage 4 is not where you want to start your battle against cancer. It means the testicular cancer has spread to other parts of the body and makes the job of treating the testicular cancer a lot tougher.
Its kind of like starting a baseball game in the ninth inning with two outs, two strikes and down by two runs with nobody on base. Its not impossible, but its a hard road to come back from, but with enough belief, drive, perserverance and maybe just a little bit of luck, it can be done. Just ask Lance Armstrong.
Clayton has been undergoing chemotherapy which has supressed his immune system, hence the surgical mask, and as I watched him shake hands, the reason he pulls out hand sanitizer after he shakes somebody’s hand. But as I learned later, be careful shaking his hand – he was the Armed Forces “Fleet Week” arm wrestling champion one year (oh, and he won boh left and right handed divisions, so don’t fall for the old “I’ll arm wrestle you with my bad arm” ploy…). He’s getting ready to undergo another round of chemo followed by a bone marrow transplant later this month.
I’ve dealt with a lot of people that have battled serious medical problems and its interesting to observe what drives how some people respond to the challenge with a full-hearted, 100% never-quit effort. Clayton is surprisingly upbeat when he talked about his diagnosis and the long treatment road in front of him.
How upbeat?
He’s gone ahead and registered for the Honu Ironman 70.3 Triathlon next May and has been training as much as his treatment allows. You have to like the odds of someone who thinks like this… “Gee, I have cancer and it sounds pretty bad… hmm…guess I’ll whip it and then go race an Ironman to celebrate…”
Gotta love an attitude like that, and hopefully Clayton’s attitude reminds all of us of the importance of being more aware of the people outside of our “boxes”.
Welcome to the Tri Club, Clayton.
I have full confidence after meeting you that you’ll do exactly what you plan to do. Beat cancer and cross the finishline in Hawaii.
P.S.
Oh, and thanks for reminding me to look outside my “box”
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Hello, Docta John
This is why I gave those circulars in my goody bag, from the CAF silent auction, to my friends at work. You rock.
Hey Doc J, thanks for introducing us! I’m sure many, like myself, noticed this guy. Extremely handsome, looks to be in great shape, etc…who IS this guy??!! But one never knows what the mask is: does he try to shield himself from germs, or is he shielding us from him? So even though, curious, not quite sure what to make of it or what to do. Clayton, welcome to the tri club and I really admire your attitude!! I wish you health, a speedy recovery and a speedy race in Hawaii next year!
Anna
Hi Dr. John,
SSgt Clayton’s spirit, ambition, and determination embodies the sport of Triathlon – overcoming ones personal obstacles whether physical or mental. Through his actions and commitments, SSgt leads us to embrace life and to continually challenge ourselves. Thank you for sharing your introduction to SSgt Clayton. I know we will be hearing more inspirational stories about him.
Thanks Doc John for this GREAT story! I’m so happy you went outside your box : ) Clayton: can’t wait to see you at the next tri-club event .We’re all cheering for you.
Oh my!
Thanks for the reminder of our limited thinking and for introducing such
an inspirational person who has clearly not forgot!
Cindy Morris, msw
Priestess Entrepreneur
http://PracticalPriestess.com.blog
John,
I’m honored that you’ve taken the time out to reflect upon my decision to fight the odds and complete my ambition to achieve Ironman Glory.
Like yourself, I’ve been forced to think outside the box with many different situations. And the more I learn, the more I realize I really don’t know.
July 25th 2009, I was diagnosed with recurrent stage four cancer. Since then I have committed my time and effort to not only fight for myself, but for all the people that have suffered from watching me endure cancer treatment. Watching my family and friends in pain from being subjected to witness my hardship was something that shook me to the core.
Therefore I will take advantage of every second I have on this earth. Whether I am here for 2 days or 100 years every moment is dedicated towards protecting my loved ones by taking care of my health, and educating people about my situation so they have a self-awareness incase they are confronted with similar challenges.
Besides the whole cancer treatment, chemotherapy, stem cell transplantation and aphaeresis (dialysis), training for the Ironman, and gaining support to get there. I’m also starting a Non Profit, TEAM TRESKA, that is geared towards assisting people from all walks of life without demographic limitation.
Most importantly I want to inform. There are many people out there that are unaware of the subsequent physical reactions to cancer and chemotherapy treatment. I’m making strides to give them a first person’s account of what it’s like.
Since last June I went from peak physical condition, to terminal diagnosis, and now to a 60% success rate. As easy as this is to say, adequately conveying the process is a bit more challenging. Although I’m making an effort to remedy that.
I have a facebook page TEAM TRESKA with a modest following, and I’m in the middle of building a website. I’d like to invite you and anyone who is curious about my condition to view my pictorials and publication in my photo album in an effort to help understand cancer and chemotherapy. And if nothing at all, try to explain why I have to wear a mask in public (neutropenia).
“If communication is the key, then information is the power that turns it.”
Thank you for supporting me, and allowing me into your club. I assure you I will not let you down.
Respectfully,
Clayton Treska
Hello my name is mckenzie my teacher told us about you and guess what she’s your cousin. Mrs. rodrigues. wow! thats cool! wow oh yeah thats awesome
Hello my name is Ashley, I am one of your cousin,Ms.Rodriguez, student she was telling us all about what u have gone throught.