"Positive" is one word that has the ability to change everything. My aunt was diagnosed with breast cancer twelve years ago. At that time, I was eight years old and didn’t really know what cancer meant. She was told she had maybe six months to live. Twelve years later; she still thrived.
Nine months ago, however, she got the news that no cancer survivor wants to hear. Her cancer was back, but this time, it was in her bones. I remember hearing the news. This time was different than the first. This time, I understood what cancer is and what cancer can do. I understood how it can affect the physical and mental state of the one with the cancer, as well as all those who care about the individual.
This time, they gave my aunt a few years to live. She has treatments almost every month. I complain because I might have a cold. She has cancer and goes through horrific treatments, and I’m the one that has the audacity to complain? What is wrong with me?
Just a few days ago, I had the great idea to go strawberry picking because it’s sweet summertime and fresh strawberries are de-lish-iousssss. Not to mention, I thought of this grand idea while it was raining and thundering. Probably not one of the smartest ideas I have had, but still I was bound and determined to get myself some homegrown strawberries! Who did I call to go on this adventure with me? You guessed it right, my aunt. There she was bending down picking buckets of strawberries. We were picking strawberries with rain and thunder, yet laughing so hard. This is when I realized, “Wow, she’s kicking cancer's butt”. That moment really got me thinking. NOTHING can stop my aunt. She had treatments earlier in the week, and the day after we were strawberry picking was the day she would find out her results. I asked her how she was feeling about it. Best case scenario she would get to stay on the same treatments. Worst case scenario, she would have to switch treatments and go to radiation. Somehow she was still managing to tell me this with a smile on her face and was ready for whatever faced her. The next day, I received a text from my other aunt. I knew this was about the results, so I tried to prepare myself for the news. The best case scenario happened. No radiation for her!!!
In my heart, I believe the reason my aunt has kicked cancer's butt so far is because of one word, positive. It is so easy to get down and feel sorry for oneself, but does she? No! Her positivity has literally saved her life. She is positive about her treatments; she is positive about the time she has left; she has a positive relationship with God. Positivity is key for everyone. Everyone has tough situations they go through: cancer, breakups, low-self esteem. That one word can help any person in any situation. Stay positive!
Until next time.. Jules<3
