Connections Made Through Cancer

Where to begin with this topic? Well, I will start by letting go off all my previous friendships. Unfortunately, upon hearing my diagnosis in 2018, I was very disturbed. I did not want to explain or cry or talk through my emotions with anyone. I kept to myself, hearing all the whispers behind my back, “she has cancer”, “look at her nails how black”. Why are people so mean? But such is life. I made new friends through clinics, counselling sessions and doctor visits. It’s funny how life turns out at times. We laugh, we cry but we move on.

There was one particular moment where I attended a breast cancer event, as a patient. I was scared and nervous at the same time. I was so young among older women. Some people thought that I was waiting for someone, but I was there. Then a government official approached me and said hello to me. Boy I nearly fainted, I couldn’t speak properly but I shook his hand, and we had a conversation after that in front of everyone. It didn’t last long but I was really moved by this gesture. He took time to acknowledge me, lol.

After that I left, I didn’t see the need to stay, although he stared at me as I was leaving. Hmmm, what did that mean? Soon after he posted our picture on social media, I mean WTH man. Surprisingly I got great comments. I didn’t expect that type of reaction from the crowd. So, I visited his office again and again, just to say hello. It felt nice to be appreciated at times. Though he was really busy, he took the time to chat with me a little. I guess, a little really goes a long way.

After, I was invited to all his events. It was nice and weird all at the same time. I did feel out of place, but I still showed up. Sometimes appearances in a person’s life are worth much more than words or gifts. So, I began to journal all my thoughts and emotions, in the hope to publish a book soon. Day by day, I just got up and wrote about things. Can a breast cancer survivor really make a difference?

I was not even sure to survive, far less writing about it. But the almighty has his own plan, and I trust it. So, back to the moments where I was really moved and touched. Did you know that every year now, this same government official has a breast cancer campaign full of events now. Wow, talk about impressions. We met in the year 2019 and six years later, it still feels the same. I am so happy for all my new connections and friends now. This cancer ordeal has really thought me a lot about family and friends.

I wish life wasn’t so complicated at times, but it is. Life is really hard and stressful but how we deal with things, really define us at times. You know how the saying goes, “you see people true colors, in difficult times”. Please don’t forget that. Well until next time, my herd. Elephants and Tea, love you all!