 |
|
 
|
|
|
Erin Taylor
I never thought that at the age of 25 my strength and courage would be
put to the test. However, throughout diagnoses I was amazed at the
things I have went through and have done without a complaint. As a
Survivor, I now have a better understanding on Cancer and what Cancer
Patients have to go through to beat this disease. My viewpoint on
diagnoses was not a tragedy, it was rather a GIFT. A gift of stronger
relationships, patience, courage, compassion, and having a better
perspective on life.
I have learned many things about myself by opening up to the closest
people in my life. I have felt that all of my relationships with them
have gotten stronger through their love and support. I have learned
that there are some things in life that I can't control; however, I
can control how I react to them. My choice was through positivity,
kindness, humor, and staying patient. As a Survivor, I can say that I
have a great deal of compassion for those who have to fight as well.
With that, I plan to raise awareness about Breast Cancer in the
community as much as I can, as well as starting to give back as a
Volunteer at the GBMC Oncology Unit. I have met so many beautiful
caring people throughout this journey and what better way to say thank
you than to give that very same care and love to others that they have
given to me.
Most of all, keeping perspective was key at all times. Right before I
started Chemotherapy, I said to myself "I’m a competitor and a
fighter at heart; and that’s something Cancer can’t take away from me.
You will not kill my good spirits, my hope, and you most certainly
will not take away my smile. You will only make me a stronger person
with a greater appreciation for life and for those who share it with
me!"
About 2 months after diagnoses, I watched a Barbra Walters Special -- 7
going on 70. This episode was about children born with Progeria, which
is a rapid aging disease where people don't live past the age of 14.
At the near end of her show Barbara asked this 7 year old girl, Kaylee
"If there was one piece of advice you could give others fighting your
disease, what would you say to them?" She responded back with "BE
FABULOUS!! Don’t let ONE THING ruin your life." Ever since I heard
these 9 courageous words, they have been my motto throughout
treatments. Our lives are made up by our experiences, successes,
mistakes, challenges, events, and most of all the people who share it
with you -- family and friends. Being sick did not define me or my
life. It was only ONE THING in my life and it certainly did not ruin
the experience of life. Being diagnosed was a GIFT at a better and
more "FaBuLoUs" life! By the way, I'm still smiling!
|
|
|
| |
|
|
