"It is often argued that life-threatening illness imbues its victims with a new vigor for life. I’ve always found this notion sort of idiotic..."

In recent years, I've spent a lot of time working with late stage cancer patients as part of my job.

When I first started, several friends speculated that it might give me a deeper appreciation for my own health, and "imbue me with a new vigor for life"

Perversely, similar to the author, I've found the opposite to be true - it can be difficult for me to shake the knowledge that this is a fate that most of us will face (if not directly, on behalf of a loved one) if we're lucky enough not to die of something else first.

I don't have any insight to share on what to do about it - I'm still wrestling with the issue. Just wanted to say thank you for posting the story.