Blog

October 1, 2024

By Anne Dabbs, 
NCAN TN Support Group Leader, NET Patient

Recently, a fellow NETs patient took delight in my analogy of managing Neuroendocrine Cancer as a game of “Whack-a-Mole.” While this lighthearted comparison may seem whimsical, it’s not meant to downplay the seriousness of our condition. Instead, it’s a reminder that no matter how many “moles” pop up, we keep pushing forward, hoping that each new treatment will be just as effective—if not better—than the last.
Our pleasant online exchange led me to reflect on the many helpful tidbits I’ve gathered over the years while living with NETs. One of my first introductions to this “Whack-a-Mole” metaphor came from a NETs advocate, whose quick wit and positive outlook resonated with me immediately. Since then, I’ve picked up numerous other sayings, some directly from NET specialists, others from everyday life. Some are educational, while others are one-liners that remind us that if “we don’t laugh, we might cry.”

These quotes aren’t just words; they’re fuel for our journey. I hope you find encouragement and a few smiles in the collection below.

“Besides the NETs, you’re in good shape.” — Unknown

“Get to a doctor with a full toolbox of Neuroendocrine treatment tools. This way he can select the right tool for you at the right time.” — NETs Patient and Advocate

“You don’t have to be brave all the time; just one moment longer than you think you can.” — Unknown

“It’s not the load that breaks you down, it’s the way you carry it.” — Lou Holtz

“Proper Nets patient care requires a team effort.” — Dr. Amr Mohammad, Seidman Cancer Center

“Don’t go there until you get there.” — NETs Patient Discussing Anxiety

“Right foot, left foot, breathe”. — Pat Summit

“Slow and steady wins the race.” — Bugs Bunny

“You’ll likely die with this disease, not from it.” — Anonymous

“A scan is only as good as the person reading it.” — Dr. Eric Liu, Rocky Mountain Cancer Centers

“If you don’t know what you are looking for, you’ll never find it .” — Dr. Hagen Kennenke, OHSU

“It’s always something — If it’s not one thing, it’s another.” — Gilda Radner as Rosanna Rosannadanna

“Facing each scan with bravery doesn’t mean you are not scared; it just means you are stronger than the fear.” — NETs patient

“Stay informed. Fear and imagination are often worse than reality” — Unknown

“Normal is still normal.” —Dr. Eugenie Woltering , LSU (in response to a patient’s concern about slight increases in normal lab results.)

“I have not come this far, to only go this far.” — Sign in sheet at an oncology office

“Not all tumors are created equal; treat the patient, not just the tumor.” — Dr. James Yao, MD Anderson Cancer Center

“Every scan is a chapter, but it’s not the whole story.” — Dr. Edward M. Wolin, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center

“Living with NETs is a marathon, not a sprint”, and finding moments of levity or words of wisdom can make the path a little smoother. Whether you’re managing scans, navigating treatment options, or facing the mental and emotional challenges of life with NETs, NCAN is always HERE to support you. We’re committed to helping you not just survive but thrive—living as well as possible with this disease.

At NCAN, we believe that learning to live well with NETs is a shared responsibility. While it’s up to your medical team to provide the best care and treatments, it’s just as important for patients to stay informed, find strength, and build a support system. Remember, NCAN is always here to walk this path with you, providing resources, community, and hope along the way.