I get my love of writing from my dad. He has always loved to spin a good tale and give you a chuckle. For as long as I can remember, I've done the same thing. I'm not as good a storyteller as he is, but the love is definitely there.
Through my cancer journey, Dad is very much evident in that I want to share my story. But how I deal with what I'm going through... that's all Mom. She was diagnosed when she was 44. Twenty-five years ago, breast cancer wasn't talked about, not everyone had a story about their cousin's best friend's mother who had had breast cancer. There was so much unknown when you went through this.
Mom received her diagnosis, had her surgery, and she was done. I'm sure she was scared, terrified even, and I'm sure there were plenty of things that happened that I don't know about, but what I do remember is the joking and the laughter that came with recovery. It was how she (and we as a family) dealt with it. The one particular moment that has come to my mind so often lately is Dad needing a tissue and asking Mom if she had one in her purse. Moments go by while she looks with no success. Suddenly it dawns on her - she is post-surgery and not yet able to wear a prosthesis. She reaches into her bra, pulls out a tissue and passes it to Dad with a chuckle.
Life is what it is, this is what's been handed to us. We cannot change it, our only control is how we deal with it. It is much easier to laugh at the absurdity of what we are going through than to wallow in it. These are things I've learned from my parents through their actions - they sure set a great example.
Life is what it is, this is what's been handed to us. We cannot change it, our only control is how we deal with it. It is much easier to laugh at the absurdity of what we are going through than to wallow in it. These are things I've learned from my parents through their actions - they sure set a great example.
I searched for a photo of Mom and me, but had a hard time finding any. Why is that? We'll have to remedy that this summer. I did come across this one that wasn't taken recently. We kind of look alike, don't you think? Lucky me...
...Kare
email: karenk{at}eastlink.ca
website: http://www.karenkyte.com
I love the picture of you and your mom. You do look alike! Moms are special people. Keep up the writing; I am honored to be on this journey with you.
ReplyDeleteyou are your mother's daughter. and your father's. good genes! love you all! smh
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing Karen..your courage is empowering. Your strength shows power and your life represents hope. Bless you in your journey and I will try to follow along to learn more about the woman you have become. It has been many years since we have seen each other, however it feels like not so long ago.
ReplyDeleteMany caring thoughts, Lisa (Lanceleve) Bowman
Loved your blog today although I was a little embarrased. I really don't think of myself as a hero, just one of many cancer survivors who are able to look back at the memories and laugh at some and get teary-eyed at the others. You are so fortunate to have your team who are there for you and are surrounding you with love.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much to all of them. Love you, Mom
You guys look very alike! And this post was beautifully written, and everything said was even more beautiful. This part is my favorite:
ReplyDelete"Life is what it is, this is what's been handed to us. We cannot change it, our only control is how we deal with it. It is much easier to laugh at the absurdity of what we are going through than to wallow in it. These are things I've learned from my parents through their actions - they sure set a great example."
Stay strong, keep smiling, and be thankful that your mom is such a fabulous woman and obvious inspiration to you :) xxx
Thank you for sharing Karen..your courage is empowering
ReplyDeleteHi Karen!
ReplyDeleteIts been awhile... it almost feels like I'm stalking you but I love reading your blog! I think you also are quite a hero and wish you the best of luck! Take care of yourself and I'll keep stalking you :) PS - you and your mom really do look alike - Sisters like me and my mom!
Thanks, Beth; I'm thankful to have you on my journey with me.
ReplyDeleteGreat genes we share smh! Love you!
ReplyDeleteLisa, you are so sweet. You're right, it doesn't feel like so long ago. I'm thrilled to have you follow along this crazy journey and appreciate the good thoughts!
ReplyDeleteMom - I love you.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Alex - I know you're blessed with a wonderful mother, too. Aren't we lucky!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Debbie - I appreciate your stopping by.
ReplyDeleteMichelle, stalking is totally okay with me!!
ReplyDelete