I’m not much for celebrating or even recognizing days that something bad happened. I don’t think loved ones who died would want me to be sad… I wouldn’t want that for any of my family members. I don’t think it’s good to go back to the past and let myself feel anguished. However, it makes a difference if we can put a positive spin on things!
So… today is one year since I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Oh yes, I cried my heart out when Ric and I received the news… and for several days afterward. But today, one year later, I’m still here, so I celebrate that. But there’s more.
· March 8, 2006, is the day I became a SURVIVOR. I often heard from other women that they were 5 year, 10 year, 20 year survivors… and I asked a friend, “What marks the time you become a ‘survivor’? When the tumor is removed? When treatments end? When you get your first mammogram that everything’s all clear?” She replied, “The moment you’re diagnosed!!!” I understood that. The moment we’re diagnosed we start the surviving part.
· During 2006, I learned what I can endure and that I have wells of strength within me. “Cancer” is a difficult word to hear. The surgeries and treatments are tough to go through. The emotional toll is sometimes heavy. With lots of support from family and friends and reliance on God… I did come through last year.
· I was blessed to experience the constant love and caring of my husband… and my family. And friends. And strangers who became friends. Signs of support from people who didn’t even know me, except as a voice on the radio. I had a year of being aware of great blessings. I have blessings everyday even now. But last year, I took almost nothing for granted.
· March 8, 2006, began a new mission in my life – to encourage and support other women who are diagnosed with breast cancer. To encourage women to care for themselves and their health… to get breast exams and mammograms on a regular basis. And to offer support, realizing I don’t have to have any extraordinary wisdom to do so… but just to share my experience. It helped me to know I was not alone. The experience alone makes us a storehouse of information, that others can use in their healing process.
So… it IS an anniversary to be recognized… and celebrated. Even in the darkest times… there is always light.
Move always toward the Light!
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