Coping With Cancer
This column was written by CBS News Early Show co-anchor Harry Smith.
It seems everyone is talking about John and Elizabeth Edwards' decision to keep on running, despite Elizabeth's recurrence of cancer. A new CBS News poll shows that most Americans — 57 percent — support the decision, while 24 percent think it is a bad idea. Among Democrats, they fare a little better.
Fifteen hundred people die from cancer in the United States each day, so it's likely someone you know or love has done battle with the disease. There are no degrees of separation when it comes to cancer. It touches everyone.
So what would you do if you found out you have it? Cancer survivors I've spoken with say no one can answer that except the person with the disease. Cancer specialists say your frame of mind has a lot to do with your ability to get better. And if helping your husband run for president makes you feel good, then do it.
White House spokesman Tony Snow has often said that he has the greatest job in the world. Little wonder then that he announced from his hospital room that he was coming back to work despite a recurrence of his cancer.
Harry's daily commentary can be heard on many CBS Radio News affiliates across the country.
By Harry Smith