Yesterday, I hit the track for the first time since my diagnosis of breast cancer in October of 2016! My husband and I did a mile!!!! I was so proud of myself as I watched our son at track practice with his team. I felt like I stretched…I was walking the walk… I was setting the example for our son. As Coach Jimmy Valvano said right before he lost his battle with cancer, “Never give up! Don’t ever give up!” I have to admit, there was one moment when I did. I did not give up on life, but I gave up on living. I stopped running, I stopped dancing, I didn’t even want to leave the house unless it was for treatment or work…familiar faces and places. As I walk through this journey, or RUN through this journey😊, I realize that you have to keep moving. There is a huge difference between having life and living life. No matter what hand you’re dealt, nor what your future holds, you’ve got to keep your head in the game.
So many things have changed in my life some good some not so good, but everything that has changed has helped me to be better, to do better, and want better for myself and my family. The first time I touched a track was when I was 8 years old, the same age as our son now. The track was the place where I felt free, able to enjoy the weather, the breeze against my skin, the sun on my face. I was able to think, reflect, sing, be with my friends and just simply be. Running and walking always made me feel good! Yesterday brought all of that back. It reminded me of what once was and what could be again. It reminded me that I had gotten through a part of the journey that had humbled me and built me up. A journey that reminded me that HE is able so that I am able. Yesterday was a pivotal point in my life.
If you have struggled or continue to struggle through your cancer journey, remember to live life in the best ways you know how. Do your best to keep a level head and a positive outlook. Even in your darkest days find something to cling to that you love, that gives you energy, that allows you to be human but be present in the moment. “Don’t give up, don’t ever give up!”
Jimmy Valvano was an inspirational college basketball coach, most memorable coaching at North Carolina State University. In April of 1993 shortly after his infamous speech at the ESPYs, Coach Jimmy Valvano lost his battle with adenocarcinoma. He was such an inspiration to many and continues to bring hope to all who hear his message 25 years later.
My CANcer Wisdom to You: In the words of Coach Jimmy Valvano, “Cancer can take away all of my physical abilities. It cannot touch my mind, it cannot touch my heart, and it cannot touch my soul. And those three things are going to carry on forever. I thank you and God bless you all.”
For more information on The Jimmy V Foundation, please visit www.jimmyv.org/
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