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October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and most of the articles you will read will be about breast cancer and prevention. But I would like to go in a different direction.  Everyone, meet my dear friend Mary. I see Mary every week at North Cypress Medical Center in the Infusion Center where I volunteer giving free hand/foot massages. Mary has given me permission to share her story. She has Stage 4 Breast Cancer that has metastized to other organs. To keep it under control she receives treatment once a week and has been doing this for many, many years. When her cancer reappeared her doctor gave her 5 years with treatment. But she has proven them wrong and is now well past the 5 years and going strong.
But her cancer is not what this blog is about. It is about Mary's positive attitude. Her doctor tells her that her positive outlook has made a big difference in helping her body fight this disease. Studies have shown that how we think makes a bid difference in our health. Mary could stay focused on her cancer but she has chosen to move past the negative and dwell on the positive. She chooses to keep her eyes on God and focus on all the blessings she has in her life: family, friends, and of course, a good book and coffee! I wish each of you would have an opportunity to meet Mary. Everyone knows her as the lady with the pink hair. She is the most delightful, caring, loving, and encouraging person I have ever met. She always has a smile on her face. When I arrive in the infusion center she tells me "I am so happy to see you" and I know she means it. She lights up the infusion center with her positive energy and humor. Mary, you make me strive each day to be a better person. God's love shines through you and brightens the lives of those who come in contact with you. Your light shines so bright that we need sunglasses when we are around you. I honor you today, Mary. You have become a very important part of my life. I am truly blessed to know you! "Cancer doesn't define me. It is not who I am." - Mary M
15 Comments
Jana Hublick
10/17/2016 01:45:53 pm
As Mary's daughter, I am thankful for everyone involved in my mom's care. My mom has been an inspiration to all of us, and we are so thankful for her presence in our lives. What you may not be aware of is how she came to Cypress Tx. She was diagnosed with Stage IV breast cancer, and two weeks after that diagnosis, her husband of 55 years passed away. It was not possible for her to remain on the family farm, so she moved to Cypress with my brother. Her courage is even more impressive when you consider that, within a matter of 3 weeks, she was dianosedwith Stage IV breast cancer, lost her husband of 55 years and had to leave her home and community. Thank you for honoring my mother
Amy
10/17/2016 09:26:14 pm
Wow! Not many of us could handle those major life challenges, let alone all within such a short time period. Thanks for sharing your Mom's story with us, May we all have such courage and strength.
Pat Glrason
10/18/2016 04:12:57 pm
I know your mom well. She has a beautiful spirit and I am glad I can call her my dear friend. She may have moved to Texas, but we still think of her as family here in Wellington. Love ya Mary.
Shelly Burton
10/18/2016 08:26:47 pm
Thank you for sharing your mom with us. She is a light in a dark world and every time I'm back in town my husband Brad & I try to go see her. I love her so much her prayers are a blessing!
Linda Weisz
10/17/2016 03:39:47 pm
You perfectly described Mary. I've known her a long time as her sister and I have been friends for over 50 years. She's such a great person. I love her personality and her ability to make everyone laugh or smile. Mary Ann is a blessing to everyone she comes in contact with! ❤️❤️❤️
Melissa seelow
10/17/2016 03:53:05 pm
Aunt Ann as I her niece calls her is awesome! I have no doubt she makes everyone around her have fun and smile and in a chemo treatment room that is needed! I would bet God uses her and her humor weekly. Take good care of her she's a blessing.
Judith Dishinger
10/17/2016 03:57:18 pm
Mary is an inspiration to all of us who know her. I am so fortunate to know her and love her. She has set an example for me to be a better person and to keep reading and loving life. Thank you Mary.
Marion Rivera
10/17/2016 03:59:13 pm
Do not let Mary's size fool you she is one of the strongest women I have ever met. Her faith and determination is unbelievable. She holds a special place in my heart ❤️ !
Norma
10/17/2016 07:17:59 pm
Mary Ann, as I have always called since meeting her, is the most sincere human I have ever met. We have been the best friends forever for 62+ years. A lot of ups and downs, but we have hung onto each other. Always so much positive energy coming from her. Although we don't see each other much, we know a phone call or text will suffice. Love you Dear FF.
Angie
10/17/2016 07:48:10 pm
Wow! I had the pleasure of meeting Marry years ago! What an amazing lady, story and true blessing to all!
Regina
10/17/2016 09:07:35 pm
Your tribute to Mary is spot on. She is the most amazing lady one will ever meet and is a true inspiration to all who have the honor to meet her. To know her is truly blessing.
Jan
10/17/2016 09:21:47 pm
This is a wonderful tribute to my sister. She is such an uplifting person with a wonderful personality and a faith that is amazing. Thank you for sharing. Love you, dear sister.
Linda
10/17/2016 09:23:39 pm
I am Mary's daughter in law and am privileged and honored to have had Mary enter my life and now live with us in our home! I echo the sentiments of this story. Everyone who meets Mary is is touched by her. She has a way of making you feel so special and loved. Everywhere we go she seems to know everyone and they are so happy to see her! I am so lucky to have her so close, right here with me. She is absolutely the most positive person I know, and if I am feeling down, I walk over and have a cup of coffee and a chat with her and I leave feeling like I can conquer anything. She amazingly finds the positive side in any situation. She has instilled that quality in her son (my husband) as well! All of our kids come over to see and counsel with her too! We are truly blessed to have Mary in our lives.
Helen
10/21/2016 12:42:35 pm
Mary is so special, fun filled, loving and encouraging. Never lets her circumstances get her down. She's my sister-in-law and a true blessing. Love her so much. Leave a Reply. |
AuthorMassage Therapist specializing in Therapeutic, Oncology, and Geriatric massage. Archives
August 2017
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