Since September of 2023, my life has consisted of appointments with various doctors sometimes involving travel, medical procedures with and without anesthesia, labs for all different purposes, visits to the hospital/ER, 3 rounds of chemotherapy, radiation and the Whipple surgery which has forever changed my digestive system. I am on all sorts of medication; some I will take for the rest of my life. There are days I feel pretty good and others I need to rest. I often forget what it feels like to be a normal human being. Cancer has forever changed my life. Did I want a cancer diagnosis and put myself and my family through this? Of course not but I have certainly learned so many things during this journey that has positively affected my life.

I have met and seen so many people going through similar cancer journeys whom have not been as fortunate as myself either with their treatment or their outcome. I have also had many people reach out to me to share their own stories and/or hear mine. One way I stay connected to normal life is to give back any way I can. This provides me with a sense of purpose and shifts my focus from my struggles to gratitude. It also blesses me beyond words. Giving back does not have to be grand or time-consuming; even the smallest efforts can make a difference, both in my life and in the lives of others.

Sending a text, email or handwritten note to someone you know in need; making a phone call when you know a friend needs to talk or just provide a listening ear; sharing my story with someone else may help that person feel a connection when going through the same thing or something similar; buying coffee/tea for a stranger or giving a compliment; giving or sharing a book/devotion/song that is an inspiration or blessing in my life; spending an hour helping someone in need or volunteering at a charity close to your heart. Many of these kindnesses have been shown to me and have helped me to keep moving in the right direction. God uses other people to show His love and there is nothing more rewarding.

With Lent right around the corner, my pastor has a wonderful idea; instead of giving up something this year, why not give back something every day of Lent. I know I have so many things around my home that I haven’t used or worn in years which could really help someone else. All these things are very small acts of kindness and some don’t even involve leaving your home. Maybe a smile is all someone needs to change the outcome of their day. You don’t know what someone might be dealing with. What an easy way to take the focus off myself and be blessed in the process.