I received my breast cancer diagnosis in January and after going through the normal emotions, I decided I would be “better not bitter” and haven’t looked back since!
I had my chemotherapy treatments first. The night before my last chemo, my partner (who is amazing!) and I went out with a group of friends (family!) for our monthly get-together. I knew something was up when I saw a lot of pink being worn…well then the pink boas came out! “Dessert back at the house” was actually a surprise last chemo party! There was pink everywhere, a cake with “better not bitter” on it, gifts, etc. and then the beauty of the sky lanterns. In my friend’s words,
“There was a great joy in sending our desires upward. I believe we were all awestruck by the beauty of our love and support rising into the heavens for her. As we were about to light our last lantern, we noticed a hole at the top, and the fuel square sat funny on the support. We were unconvinced at first of whether it would be able to fill with enough hot air, be we wanted to try anyway. Skeptically, we ignited the fuel, but the lopsided support quickly burned the side, damaging it further. Putting out the fire at the side of the lantern, we were more determined than ever…it’s the last one…it has to go! We all said words of encouragement, believing its possibilities. Against all odds, the beautiful pink damaged lantern, slowly but successfully, rose into the night air!”
I found it quite symbolic. Even if you are bruised and battered, you can never give up. I hope than anyone receiving a cancer diagnosis, can find the love, laughter and positivity that I continue to find on my journey!
Roselle Park, NJ