Today we celebrate the legacy of Dr. Maya Angelou on what would be her 88th birthday. She is a personal heroine and inspiration that lifts my soul and nurtures my attitude on life.
Dr. Angelou is a remarkable Renaissance woman who is hailed as one of the great voices of contemporary literature. She published seven autobiographies, three books of essays, and several books of poetry and is credited with a list of plays, movies, and television shows spanning more than fifty years. Her first autobiography, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings (1969), tells of her life up to the age of 17 and brought her international recognition and acclaim.
Her poem “And Still I Rise” is another one of my favorite pieces and always motivates me to rise above any obstacles and to live and grow.
Now that chemotherapy has wound down, I’m entering unchartered territory again. I will be doing hormone therapy for my breast cancer and that’s about popping a daily pill which presents its own side effects. But, not to worry, because I’ve already put out into the Universe that once again I will not suffer any major side effects.
I am still somewhat tethered to my Oncologist since I will be checking in periodically for lab tests to make sure my body is adjusting and coming back from the cancer drugs. In the meantime it’s:
Celebration Time!
Yes, I’m currently planning a blowout Birthday/Chemo Over Party! It’ll be really great to see friends and family again since I haven’t during my cancer treatments. Having it in my hometown to catch up with friends (some of whom I haven’t seen since college) and family to really make this a joyous occasion!
I’ve also signed up for my first Survivor Dinner and Relay Race! I didn’t join any support groups after I was diagnosed because talking to you guys through this blog has been the best therapy and support I could ever have. I bonded with fellow patients during my chemo treatment so it’ll be nice to meet survivors at the dinner.
The Relay Race should also be fun. At first, I was skeptical because I haven’t run or done a relay for years. My Nurse “Angel” Navigator who has been with me since the beginning assured me that I don’t have to run, just take a survivor victory lap for cheers and support from friends and family. Okay, I said, if that’s the deal, I’m totally in!
So, a lot to look forward to on the horizon. And as I’ve been told – my future’s so bright, I gotta wear shades! 💖😎
God’s love, mercy and grace know no bounds and God sent his angels to support me all around.
I’m dedicating this post to the two angels who have brightened my life and taken such incredible care of me!
Nurse Stephanie
From day one Nurse Stephanie put her angel wings around me, making me feel safe and secure. We bonded immediately and our friendship endures. Thanks so much for making my life and needs a priority by listening and addressing all my concerns. Your loving care is priceless. You rock! 💖
Nurse Chad
The Chad! Thanks so much for your warmth, patience and sincerity. I watched your interactions with other patients and knew that I was in great hands. Confident and strong with the biggest heart inside. I always knew you were there for me. 😘
God is truly amazing! He’s walked with me every step of the way and my life has been forever changed because of his grace and favor. Through him, I’ve been given the strength and determination to prevail through my colon and breast cancer journey. My life has been blessed with the love and support of family and friends, doctors and nurses and I want to thank you all for your encouragement and prayers. I love you all!
In anticipation of my last chemo treatment, I’m feeling so very happy! The Pharell song “Happy” has been a favorite of mine since it was released and its message says it all for me. I’m happy and feel happiness is the truth. I feel like a room without a roof! Clap along if that’s what you want to do – Hallelujah!!
I’ve now reached my 11th out of 12 chemotherapy treatments. I’m filled with so many emotions but the primary one is thank you, God, for your grace and favor while physically jumping up and down with joy!
I created this video as an expression of my feelings and experiences with fighting cancer. The song “Defying Gravity” from the Broadway play “Wicked” perfectly describes what I’ve taken away from my cancer journey.
Shedding fears, my unwavering faith and belief that God is always with me and that I can accomplish anything I set my mind to is such a freeing and powerful realization I’ve been blessed to receive.
My message and desire for everyone is to embrace your faith and shed your fear. We only get one life, let’s enjoy it!
Throughout my cancer journey, I’ve always looked for quotes, videos, songs to inspire and motivate me to thrive, “push through the hills” and reach my personal success. I like to share these words and moments with others to hopefully inspire self-realization and strength. I came across this motivational video on YouTube and was moved, encouraged and felt like, I get it and I intend to live my life always pushing forward and embracing the hills.