When writing about Sen. John McCain’s cancer status today, I urge my fellow writers and news presenters to use plain, accurate language. No “ battle with cancer,” military metaphors, the mythical bravery and heroism. Try something different. Cancer is cellular biology. It’s when our cells stop obeying the script, and reproduce like crazy. It’s science. Not emotional toxins, insufficient kale, bad karma, or “a brave battle.” It’s just glitchy cells you guys. Sometimes it kills the ones we love.

I want to talk for a moment about fear When I was diagnosed with cancer I learned some things about fear. The fear you feel when cancer is active and in your body and diagnosed is a special kind of fear.