Top Reasons Why I'm Grateful For Being Diagnosed With Cervical Cancer

I've thought long and hard about whether or not to write this post. I'm sensitive those who have been touched by cancer, and I'm concerned that this post may offend some people. We are all very different - each and every one of us - and that's one of the elements what makes this world such a wonderful place. So this post is simply my experience with cancer. In no way do I expect or believe that others on a similar walk (or "battle") should feel the same way I do. We all have different bodies, different coping mechanisms, and different backgrounds. I have friends who are downright angry about having cancer. I have friends and loved ones who are, for lack of a better word, pissed that I am having to deal with cancer.  I love and respect all of them and their experiences immensely. So just as I respect them and their choices, I ask that you respect me and mine.  I ask this because I am the opposite of angry or pissed about being diagnosed with cancer, I am, in fact, grateful beyond measure.  Here's why, in no particular order:

• All of my friendships and relationships are stronger and richer now.
• I get to fall in love with my husband all over again.
• I love myself more.
• People know me better.
• My family is making friends with my friends.
• I've met and had the privilege of being treated by some of the greatest medical professionals in the world. (I'm talking to you: Dr. Greenburg, Dr. Banta, Dr. Danforth, Debbie, Hopi, Aunt Kathy, Tim, Pam, Rachel, Shelby and Lisa.)
• I have an instant bond now with thousands and thousands of people, simply because we've all been touched by cancer.
• My life has more meaning.
• I get to inspire people.
• I get to make a difference in a new way.
• I get a free Brazilian for the duration of my treatment. (Not exactly a Brazilian, but I haven't had to do any grooming down below thanks to radiation.)
• I'm learning how to stick up for myself.
• I found Wonder Woman and Mr. Clean
• Both my sisters were able to come visit me from out of state. My dad has been down three times and my mom is coming out at the end of March. Wow! I love them and have missed them so much!
• I'm inspired to create a new dance fitness class for cancer patients and caregivers, free of charge. (Give Charlie a call at Party On! Fitness for details: 760-668-6245.)
• I get to cry tears of gratitude on a daily (mostly hourly) basis.
• Red lights don't matter. Weather doesn't matter. Most stupid things I used to complain about are completely irrelevant to me anymore.
• I'm learning how to blog and am thrilled that people are touched by my words.
• My dad is proud of me.
• My mom is proud of me.
• My husband is proud of me.
• My sisters and brother are proud of me.
• I think I'm awesome! (Not conceited awesome, but awesome like someone I'd want to be friends with.)
• I'm empowered.
• I got licensed to teach Zumba Sentao while I was going through chemo and radiation treatment - and I completed the class!
• Flowers are more beautiful to me now.
• If joy were a needle in a haystack I know I could find it.
• Only excellent, super amazing people are showing up in my life (that means all of you reading this).
• I've gotten more quality time with my cats.
• Although we've always been close, my family has gotten even closer through this experience.
• Johanna Sanches rocks my world.
• My Zumba family has held me so tightly I've felt safe every step of the way.
• No cooking, no cleaning for six weeks straight! (Not that I did much anyway, but this time it's been guilt-free!)
• (I don't even have to clean the cat box.)
• I'm getting to know my family in Iowa that I hadn't really known since I was seven years old.
• I listen to myself. 
• I trust myself to do what's best for me.
• I get to celebrate two birthdays every year.
• I'm a better Reggaeton dancer because I can finally feel the music!
• Everyday is a reason to celebrate!

This list is just the start. I'll keep adding to it as ideas pop into my head.

Again, I apologize if this post offends anyone, that is not my intention. I just want to share that I have gotten more out of being a cancer patient than cancer has gotten from me.

Love and Light,

Laurie

P.S. - If you'd like to leave a comment, it'll be much easier if you go here instead of trying to do it through Blogger. If the link doesn't work, just go to:
https://www.mylifeline.org/lauriethrives/default.cfm?page=myupdates.cfm
Simply scroll to the bottom of the update you want to comment on and hit "comment." I love hearing from you. You're love keeps me alive!