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Fighting Cancer Together

Publication: Ultimate Fort Bend, Houston

Q: What was your experience like with cancer?

A: I was diagnosed in May 2012. As soon as the doctor told me, I just went to work with the doctors and nurses to fix the issue. I guess my training as an engineer and QA manager kicked in. I was always able to maintain an, "I'm going to fix this and be able to stick around for a long time" (attitude).

Q: How has your wife, Laura, supported you during this time?

A: She has been my guardian angel. She drove me to treatments and appointments because she wanted to. She helped with the treatments, listening to the doctors and nurses to make sure I understood the next steps, took my meds, forced/cajoled/encouraged/sweet talked to me to make me eat when I didn't or couldn't. She was there to listen, encouraged me when I needed it. I could not have asked for a better, more loving wife and best friend. Laura made a very difficult period easier through her care and love.

Q: Laura, how is taking care of your husband different than your job as a nurse?

A: I love being a nurse. I have been a nurse for as long as I have been married.

But I have always worked at doctor's offices. So my care for (the patients) was brief. The care that I needed to give my husband was ongoing for 24 hours, seven days a week. He is my best friend, and I had to make sure I gave him the best care that I knew.

Q: Why is it important that people be aware of that role?

A: They do and mean so much and take a back seat emotionally to the patient. They should be treasured for their love and support and told each day they matter and make a huge difference.

Q: What would you tell a caregiver for someone with cancer?

A: Take care of yourself... And understand that even though their loved one might not say it, all of their efforts are very much appreciated and mean so, so much.

Learn more:
Name: Domingo Salcido
Community Connection: Sugar Land resident and patient at Texas Oncology-Sugar Land
Fast Fact: The Salcidos have been married for 36 years and enjoy hunting, camping, fishing, gardening and other outdoor activities.

This article originally appeared in Ultimate Fort Bend.

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