Happy Anniversary to Me

Now that I have all that venting aside, it's time to take a minute to reflect.  Six years ago today, I was diagnosed with breast cancer.  It's a day locked in my memory forever.  I can feel the butterflies in my stomach as I remember the moment I knew I would be told I had cancer.

Like everything else in life, cancer has it's milestones.  One year as a cancer survivor.  Every year after that is a milestone, but there are the "big" birthdays.... FIVE years as a cancer survivor.  And now I'm at six.  The in between years that will lead to the big ten.  So what am I reflecting on?  Well, right now, I'm reflecting on my complaining day the other day.  That's just kind of how it goes.  Still being in the throws of fighting this disease, those days come and go and a part of coping and processing the ups and downs...the ebb and flow of issues that are a part of my daily life.

Those kind of days are usually followed by clarification that I am strong and there are a whole lot more good, normal days, and most are a result of the choices I make to endure and make the best of every situation.  I am inspired by many fighting their own battles.  Not just battles with cancer.  People like those who have no home because a tornado has swept it from its foundation, or the many homes and farms and businesses that are destroyed by the floods in the South.  I cannot imagine this kind of devastation.

We are all survivors.  What incredible spirits we have to take what we're given and carry on.  The power we have to turn it around and make the most of it, to become a source of inspiration to the next person who will fall on hard times, tragedy, loss, illness.

So, Happy Birthday to Me!  I celebrate another year of life, and another day which is a gift that I cherish.