So now what? How am I going to tell my family?

From note on May 7, 2003

I've decided to write down my thoughts.  I've never gone through anything like this.  I haven't been in the hospital since the day I was born.  So, I have no idea what it will be like.  I go in for my first chemo treatment on the 12th.  I will have 5 non-stop days of chemo every month.  I don't know how to tell my family.  How do you call your Mom and tell her you have cancer?  What am I supposed to say to my Dad?  How and the world am I going to tell Alonzo?  He has not gotten over losing his mom and that was 5 years ago.  So I don't know how he is going to take this news.  I just need to stay positive.  I just need to keep a good outlook.  THIS WILL NOT BEAT ME!!  I have to remember that.  I will not die from this!!  I have to remember that.