Once a Survivor, Always a Survivor.

I’ve never thought of myself as a survivor; in my mind, that relates to people who have lived through a catastrophic event, you know, an earthquake, a tsunami, abuse of some sort. I’ve just gone about living through the ups and downs of life, without really thinking about the idea of survivorship.

Then I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Once again I went about formulating a plan, did all the tests, treatments, lifestyle reassessments- living through it.

Then I realized that I have, in fact, lived through a life-changing event. So, I am a “survivor.”

What does that even mean? I am a researcher, I love to learn as I go, so I looked it up and found several definitions, some of which really help me own my survivorship:

A person regarded as resilient or courageous enough to be able to overcome hardship, misfortune, etc.

The definition of a survivor is a person who copes with a bad situation or affliction and who gets through, or a person who manages to live through a situation that often causes death.

These two definitions found on YourDictionary help me see what others may see in me. there is no doubt that I have found resilience, hope, and courage to see me through each life changing event I have encountered in my life- from having a car die in the left lane of a superhighway, to a shoulder injury altering my ability to perform surgery and patient exams, to dealing with a diagnosis of breast cancer, including the ongoing gifts and side effects.

I believe survivorship begins at the time of diagnosis, when the world shifts on its axis, looks and sounds different with altered colors and tones. Things might look brighter. Or darker. I believe survivorship begins with the question of “now what?” and is best sampled one day at a time. With each step. With each breath.

As my life continues to evolve, I know that my focus is on helping others, currently other breast cancer survivors. Perhaps that will expand in the future as I remain open to what life brings me. I continue my Nia Technique journey as well, learning more and more about myself and my place in this world. I have an idea for a workshop, am listening to interesting music and podcasts, and working with my colleagues on creating choreography.

Once again, stay tuned. Please add any comments, share ideas with me and others….