Sunday, September 14, 2014

Triple Negative Breast Cancer - 1 year gone!


I chuckle every time I type the words Triple Negative.  There are way more than three negatives associated with this breast cancer!  Here is a link to the definition and quick information for this diagnosis for those interested...http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Triple-negative_breast_cancer
Now, having gone through it and beat it, I'm finding so many positives to replace those negatives in my life.

Yesterday I celebrated my 1 year cancer free anniversary!  I am thankful for every day and for all of the wonderful people in my life who continue to surround me with love and strength.  My family was and is my rock and anchor.  All of your prayers and words of encouragement helped me beyond words.  Without all of you I would not have been able to get through this past year with the grace and courage that I was able to muster up.  Thank you.

I also wanted to give a shout-out to all of the new friends that I made along my journey.  My life is so much richer for having met all of you.  And always in my heart are the strangers that took a minute out of their day to approach me and give me words of encouragement and share their stories with me.  I was constantly surprised and touched by the folks that would recognize what I was going through and come over to chat, give a hug and tell me that I was going to get through it and that I would be just fine.  Made me cry every time - still does when I think about it.  Never underestimate the power you have to brighten someone's day and take advantage of reaching out when you can.  It really does mean the world to the person you reach out to and they will not soon forget your kindness.

Give compliments freely.
Smile at a stranger.
Engage people in conversation when you can.
Lend a hand when you see that your hand can be used.
Love and be confident within yourself and you will automatically gravitate to the needs of others.

I will leave you with one of my favorite sayings:

Today my gratitude outweighs my expectations.  Today is a very good day.