What cancer taught me

1st August 2020 is a big day in my life., I was diagnosed with breast cancer on this day in 2002 but it still feels like it has all happened yesterday.

I feel fortunate... blessed... lucky one to have been detected at an early stage.

Breast cancer for me has been a journey of positive transformation. After I completed my treatment I realized that I was still the same ‘me’ but a better version of my own self, more empowered, more resilient, more focused and stronger than before. Cancer isn’t part of me but it has refined me and given me the motivation to be a better version of myself. It doesn’t define me but it has helped me generate a new definition of myself, a new sense of self and has given me the courage to achieve that. It has provided me with a new perspective of looking at life.

Cancer has given me a new lens to view life through. Looking back the 18 years journey makes me share with you all what cancer has taught me:

1. Nothing is invincible but with correct attitude one can be near to it.

2. Cancer has taught me that age doesn’t matter to gain strength from a person. I gained strength to fight back cancer from my then 8yr old son.

3. Cancer has taught me to appreciate my own self, life, people, places and experiences and much more.

4. I have learnt to be more patient than I have ever been in my entire life.

5. My innate need to control situations in my life has stopped dead in its track.

6. Most importantly I learnt to accept help. Everything I thought about myself before cancer was based on my ability to act independently. I learnt that creating and nurturing a support system is vital. I have learnt to understand and accept my weaknesses.

7. It made me more compassionate towards other’s needs and troubles than ever before.

8. I have learned that every moment counts. I have started living in the present moment.

9. Cancer has taught what it means to be strong. It gave an amazing feeling that I can handle more than I could imagine.

10. Cancer reinforced the importance of exercise, diet & sleep in a healthy living.

11. Cancer has taught me to focus on what is important and establish priorities in my life.

12. My breast cancer journey taught me that there is always something to be grateful for.

13. Cancer has taught me the true meaning of happiness.

14. Chemo bald has taught me that there is no bad hair day.

Cancer is just not about pain it is about a journey that educates and transforms you. It is not just about living but also thriving!!!!!!