When “it’s” Something…

I’ll never forget that gorgeous Fall day when one of my oldest and dearest friends, Liz, called to say she had breast cancer. As she wrote in a narrative about her life “I remember the day when the doctor called and I realized it wasn’t nothing, it was cancer.” It was a shock as she was vigilant about her health for her precious mother, Kathryn, lost her 15 year battle with the disease in 1998. While we were all stunned, given her family history, it wasn’t a total surprise. Her cancer was quite advanced and she immediately began an intense round of chemotherapy.

She received the call right after her move to Atlanta and a few days before Halloween. Her children were still in trick or treat mode so she kept the diagnosis to herself and numbly moved through the next few days. She was sad when she eventually shared the news with her children, given their young ages. She was especially heartbroken for her daughter who would worry not only about her mother, but also herself over the years to come.

I have shared her highs and lows over the last six years and have watched her transform her fear into faith. Thankfully, today she is in remission and her beautiful strawberry blond hair is back. She never lost her smile or her sense of humor. She has deepened her commitment to her health and loves sharing food ideas with us for the Zen business.

I also remember the last time I saw my beautiful cousin, Evangeline. She was quite a few years older than I was so I knew her better through my sister’s eyes as they were the same age and very dear friends. She was diagnosed with breast cancer when her youngest child was 3.  As a committed meditator she used all of her quiet resolve to move through the next thirteen years.  When she realized that she was approaching the end of her life she started making quilts for her three children patiently quilting in favorite sayings and photos. She also made a video reading to her unborn Grandchildren. When I arrived on that cold October day to say give her a hug and say “Good-bye” it was the first time in my life that I ever truly witnessed and understood grace. She was surrounded by an aura of love. She was also the same age I am today.

And in closing I would love to share the story of my niece Molly. As my son Doug says “she’s a sparkle.” Molly came into the world with a big heart, always joyful, full of enthusiasm and radiates love.

In January 2011, we were recovering from a year that was filled with a few highs and many lows. We were all looking forward to a year of new beginnings so we were deeply saddened by the news that Molly had breast cancer at age 20. Fortunately, she comes from a very tight knit family and her Mother is an amazing and tireless advocate as well as a medical professional, so she mobilized the family and they jumped into action.

As I sat down to write this post an article came out about Molly’s journey. I wanted to share her story not only because it gives an in-depth narrative into the devastating disease but her journey (now as a newly engaged 23 year old) offers a platform of hope.

I have marveled at the strength and inner beauty of all of these women along with my special connection to my Aunt Sallie. She was the first person who really taught me how to be courageous in times of trial. I have felt honored to share my life with all of them.

Looking Ahead

In support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month I asked Liz to share some of her favorite foods during those tough years. I was excited when she said “a cup of hot soup” because slow cooking and soup are a perfect combination. With Liz as our guide we devoted the entire month to the comfort and restorative value of soup.

Zen Moment

“Hope is faith holding out its hand in the dark.”
~George Iles