As I headed into this New Year and pondered the resolutions I wanted to make, my consistent prayer was that I would be able to slow down and simply be more present in each moment, not letting anything take me away from the day I was given. It is amazing how my prayer was answered this early into the year, and I did not have to work hard to gain perspective on the value of each moment. About a month ago I had a mole removed from my back that turned out to be malignant Melanoma. When I received the phone call from my doctor, I was shocked to find out that what I thought was a routine biopsy was much more serious and required further surgical intervention. After all I am a healthy, 32 year old woman, and you are telling me I have cancer. I was struck with real fear; a fear of the unknown journey ahead of me. Being a parent and hearing news like that makes your mind (well at least mine) spiral out of control -all you can think about is your children's future. You feel helpless and out of control. The only thing I could do was fall to my knees, pray, and trust in the Lord- that he would guide the path I was about to take and lead me through whatever the outcome. A week after having a wide excision of the affected area, lymphatic mapping, and a removal of one lymph node, it was revealed that all the cancer had been removed and all margins were clear- praise God for answered prayers.
As I reflect on this past month, I am truly grateful for this journey and the anxiety I felt, though how insignificant it was in comparison to the reality that many cancer victims face on a daily basis. I truly believe that through every trial or challenge one must face, there is always something to be learned and something to be gained, and this trail was no different. I have learned that sunscreen is my new best friend; my reason for going primal and organic in my diet is not just for overall health, but for cancer prevention as well; and that although I love the sun, I can love it just as much from under a shade tree. I know now that my body, which I previously thought invincible, is not, and that I need to take care of every inch. I have gained a deeper yet over flowing gratitude for my simple life and my beautiful family. I have learned that you never know when the phone will ring and what news it will bear, so live in the moment that was so graciously given to you and be present, alert, and live that moment with intention. I have full heartedly learned yet again - that God is good and gives you strength and comfort when in need. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will guide your path.” (Proverbs 3:5-6) This is a verse that sits on my night stand and greets me as I embark on the day ahead, it's comforting to know that we are not alone in this journey we call life!