2013 Recap

2013 Recap

As this year comes to an end (for the life of me, I still can’t figure out how the time has gone so quickly!), I find myself reflecting on the highs (exceptionally high and numerous!) the lows (few and far between) and everything in between, most of which are written about here. Though I don’t share everything here, I do share a whole lot, including the challenges (that are inevitable in life!) and of course the Silver Linings. 

As many of you know, I started this blog as a way to communicate with family and friends about my FBC (f-bomb breast cancer) diagnosis, treatment and recovery. Simply put, at the time of my diagnosis and during treatment, I just didn’t have the capacity respond to all of the (lovingly intended!) phone calls and emails. I imagine that anyone who has had FBC or who has been really sick can relate to this feeling.

So, I started writing…and writing…and writing.  Quite honestly, I figured that when I finished treatment that I would be “done” – done with the blog and with cancer. I couldn’t have been more wrong on either!

For one, I continue to write (obviously). One unexpected Silver Lining of my cancer experience is that it showed me that I love writing and speaking and communicating.

Secondly, it turns out that cancer continues to be a presence – albeit a lurker – on a daily basis. Though there is more physical and emotional space between my diagnosis and treatment (thank goodness), FBC is never far from my mind. Whether I have an odd pain (could it be back? is the very first thing that I think) or hear about a friend who is diagnosed or has a recurrence, it is always around…lurking.

You see, once your body has duped you (on an epic scale), you know that it can do it again. The Silver Lining of this presence is that – rather than fearfully obsess about it – I use it to motivate and encourage me, physically, intellectually, emotionally and spiritually.

As I reflect on the year, the first thing that comes to mind is gratitude. There have been so many amazing experiences (writing a book – that will be published on March 18, 2014, meeting new people, traveling to new places, speaking publicly) that have motivated, challenged and filled me in the most amazing ways. For these experiences, I am deeply grateful.

I am also thankful to you, dear readers, for being such an amazing inspiration. I cannot begin to tell you how much your support and comments mean to me. Wishing you the Happiest and HEALTHIEST 2014!