On a seemingly ordinary Monday morning in April 2003, I was at my construction office, juggling work and the joys of new motherhood with my 10-week-old son by my side. My two daughters were at kindergarten, and life felt blissfully busy. Then came the phone call that turned my world upside down: a surgeon’s serious voice informed me that I had advanced skin cancer. Initially, it was hard to accept. My life was filled with aspirations, family, and dreams of building a successful business. Yet, as I faced the harsh reality of cancer and endured 11 months of chemotherapy, my perspective on life shifted dramatically.
1. The Value of Human Connection
During my time in the hospital, I discovered that the nature of my surroundings—whether lavish or modest—paled in comparison to the love and support of those around me. True magic happens in our connections with others. I learned the importance of kindness and compassion, not only in personal relationships but also in professional settings. This newfound understanding made me realize that my ambitions in the construction industry were less about building a corporate empire and more about fostering human relationships. Surviving cancer ignited a desire within me to spread more love and compassion in the world.
2. Appreciating the Preciousness of Life
Post-recovery, life bloomed with vibrant colors. I came to understand that our purpose extends beyond mere survival; it’s about fully embracing life. I began to relish the small joys: watching a sunset, sharing meals with my family—even during the chaos of parenting—taking evening strolls, and feeling deep gratitude for every moment. While I’m not joyful every second, a profound change occurred within me. I became more aware of societal beliefs that box us into routines and define success solely by wealth. I realized that life is about experiencing its richness and embracing our precious existence, which starts with kindness towards ourselves and others.
3. The Power of Individual Impact
As the years rolled by, a calling to create a positive impact became louder in my heart. This journey hasn’t been instantaneous; it has taken 13 years of introspection, trial, and growth to find clarity in my purpose. I aspire to use my time on this earth to spread love and compassion, moving beyond personal comforts to uplift others. Empowering individuals to recognize their inherent value and unique contributions is a mission dear to me. Additionally, I’m passionate about advocating for women’s voices in regions where they lack representation, collaborating with a sewing school in India to help amplify their impact. My brush with death catalyzed my transformation into the person I am today.
Reflecting on my journey, I’ve learned that life is fragile and beautiful, and every moment counts. As I cherish each day, I ask myself—Did I love enough? Did I make the most of today? Can I release what I cannot control?
In summation, my battle with cancer reshaped not only my outlook on life but also my commitments to those around me. It reinforced the importance of human connections, the preciousness of life, and the ability of each individual to make a positive difference in the world.
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