Tonight, at 7:45 P.M., a doctor called with the result of last weeks MRI. I am scheduled to go have an in person visit every month for a physical examination, and go in every couple of months for an MRI.
This MRI is just about the six month mark since my surgery. The doctor said very succinctly "every thing looks fine, we'll see you in a couple of weeks at your next appointment." Fine, great.
I think it is a term of art, but from what I understand, to be cured of cancer is simply to be breathing and have no recurrence at the five-year mark. So, one-tenth of the way there. There are no guarantees, but I think the chance of recurrence is greatest in the beginning. For me, this first six months, or the first year, is when I'll be least surprised at a sign of recurrence, and most pleased to hear there is none.