How I Celebrate Life 15 Years After My First Cancer Diagnosis

October is here once again, and I’m reminded that it’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month. To be aware of breast cancer means that you’re mindful and conscious of the possibility of getting this disease, which affects one in eight women. While I agree that certain days of the year should be designated for various causes, I also believe it’s important that we’re aware and mindful of our health each and every day of the year. As a two-time cancer survivor, I practice what I preach, so I want to celebrate during the month of October by being grateful for my own good health, 15 years after my diagnosis of breast cancer.

I never want to take my health and recovery for granted. I want to honor it in the way it should be honored. My physician at the time uttered words I frequently repeat to myself: “If this experience doesn’t rivet you, nothing will. You’ll never look at life in the same way.” He was so right. These past 15 years have led to an enormous transformation from a physical, spiritual, and emotional perspective, and this is natural when you’re forced to come face-to-face with your own mortality.