Today I toast to the incredible gift of life. Six years ago today (June 7, 2011), I was diagnosed with “incurable” stage 4 metastatic breast cancer and here I am, still thriving and in the best health I have been in since the very beginning of this journey. It’s a bitter sweet day but more sweet than bitter.
Most people would think I am absolutely out of my mind for admitting this, but I’m going to go ahead and say (type :)) it anyway…. Cancer has been a gift in a sort of messed up way and it has definitely been my greatest teacher. I’m not bitter that I got cancer. In fact, I am grateful for this incredible journey that has allowed for me to grow in ways I never would have. My sentiments may not resonate with others walking my same path, but this is my own personal truth. I think I’m a better version of the person I was 6 years ago and a lot of the progress and growth I have achieved was really a result from getting the “worst news of my life.” I see the world differently, I see the beauty in everything around me, the relationships I share with loved ones and friends are a lot more meaningful and the frugal things that were once big deals to me, I let roll of my shoulders.
People always ask, how or why are you so happy? It honestly throws me off because in my mind I’m thinking, why wouldn’t I be? You see… the only true thing that you or I possess right now, is this very moment. And in this moment, I am alive, I am healthy and I’m happy. I have bad days like we all do, believe me!… But I don’t live there anymore. I’m a work in progress, I’m not perfect by any means, but I am determined to live a life of meaning and purpose with or without cancer. There’s too much that I want to see and do and accomplish in this lifetime and I believe that I will be around long enough to see my dreams come to fruition… In fact I know I will be.
And that’s just it… You have to KNOW that ANYthing is possible. Sometimes I feel like even the world believe isn’t great enough. KNOWing that anything is possible is key. That kind of faith can move mountains and pertains to ANYone going through ANYthing. I don’t share my journey for pity to praise. Rather, I am really attempting to turn my mess into a message. We all have a cross to bear and we will all face challenges in life. There’s really no way around that. How we navigate through these storms and adversities is what determines what lies on the other side of the mess. And thats just what life is to me if I could sum it up perfectly in my own words, one big incredibly beautiful mess. Everyday, but especially today, I am feeling so thankful and so blessed. Thank you everyone for all of your continued love, support and encouragement. I wouldn’t be here without it.
Cheers to Life! Love Y’all!
XO
Thanks for sharing. It’s been less than a year since I had my reoccurrence November 2017. But I feel similar you were able to put into words exactly how I feel. Many blessings to you and I wish you the best.
I enjoy and am humbled by your life. Thank you for sharing your experience with the world. We’re lucky and motivated by you. I know I am. More respect than keyboards can type.
What an amazing journey you have been on and look at how you have persevered. You are an amazing, kind, gorgeous girl and I’m grateful that you are so healthy and happy ?
….and I’m grateful for our friendship. Love you Jules
Congratulations! It’s only been 2 years since I was diagnosed with mbc but I too choose to see the beauty in everything not the burden!
Have a beautiful day?????
And that’s the spirit and attitude that will see you through. Never stop knowing that you can and will overcome. Lots of love to you on your journey. XOXOXO