Hello Friends!
Today I’m celebrating because it’s been one year since I found out I had breast cancer. The last year has been challenging, and I’ve learned more than I ever wanted to know about cancer. I had lumpectomy surgery, followed by 5 months of chemotherapy and 3 weeks of radiation. I was able to work part time last school year, but because I was so physically and mentally worn out, it really seemed like I missed most of it.
I must say that although it was a rough year, it was also pretty wonderful too. Through it all there have been so many amazing people in my life supporting me and lightening my load: doctors, nurses, family, friends, colleagues, acquaintances… Each person who contacted me with phone calls, text messages, emails, cards and letters lifted my spirits and gave me such a positive outlook. My eyes were opened to how much each gesture made a difference in my life and I plan to pay it forward! One good thing that I hope comes out of my experience is that I might be able to help others facing a cancer diagnosis. I know talking to survivors really helped me in my journey (and still does!).
And now I feel like I’ve got a new beginning. I am on sabbatical leave for the first semester of this school year. For the next five months, I will be taking some online classes, visiting other school libraries, and revamping my lessons to include more real world applications and connections outside of our school. I plan to share my learning with you right here, so I hope you’ll check in from time to time!
If you’re reading this now, I’d like to thank you for sticking with me! And if you’re facing a challenge in your life, whether it’s a sickness or another type of hardship, hang in there!
Life is good.
