A New Camino
“Camino” [cah-mee’-no] meaning road/path. A New Camino, its exactly what I feel I’m on and I am taking a closer look at my bucket list. Cancer changes your life completely and forever, nothing goes back to the way you knew it. You have to reinvent yourself and find a new you.
Several months ago I was being interviewed by my friend for a feature on her website and one of her questions was: “When did you reach your norm?” This question made me think and I had to answer honestly –“I haven’t yet.” It takes awhile, its a long road back.
People might think that as soon as you hear the words “you are cancer free” that everything goes back to normal and you are able pick up where you left off. This is NOT the case. The road back is long and difficult. After a battle, there are many collateral damages, side effects (physically and emotionally) to deal with.
Some of us (cancer survivors) barely speak about the aftermath, and the secondary effects that we have to endure after the battle, maybe because we are just so grateful for our second shot at life, that everything else seems like a small price to pay.
Make no mistake, it is not easy to reinvent yourself or to pick up the pieces. It is not easy not to think about the monster that left scars in our bodies and in our minds. Will it come back? We live with the fear of the nightmare every day. I recently read a phrase that hit home:
“Scars remind us where we’re been. They don’t have to dictate where we’re going”~Unknown.
“A-HA” Moments
By no stretch of the imagination am I a writer. I didn’t even know what blogging was until a year ago. I’m more the observant, listener type (occupational hazard). I find inspiration and many of my “A-HA” moments by listening to people. I believe you learn something, big or small, everyday of your life.
It was to my amazement that I found myself having a lot to say about this disease and my experiences with it. I wanted to share my ups and downs of my journey back from that dark place. So why not? Writer or not, I decided to start this project to share my experiences or perhaps, I’m using it as a catharsis. Whatever the case may be, I believe that my voice will resonate and will sound familiar to many.
Life After Cancer
There is life after cancer! It is a long and difficult journey back, but I do it one step at a time and when I get there it will be worth it. I’M ALIVE!!!
“The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”–Chinese Proverb.
Editor’s Note: A special thanks to four extraordinary women for giving me the vision, inspiration, “A-HA” moments and encouragement to start this project. Thank you, Tamika Felder, Rebecca Aguilar, Elizabeth Sena, and Shelley Seguinot.
Patti! I am so proud of your sophistication, emotional intelligence and kind heart. This blog is a wonderful addition to the world.
Congrats Pattie you are so courageous and i hope through this blog you will reach and touch many women who are out there wondering where to start fighting cervical cancer.
Yay! So happy for you and your new journey. You have my support!
Patti!!! You are a jewel of a person, and I mean that wholeheartedly. I can't help but think how much your first post of this new blog echoes the hopes and desires of my own first blog post over two years ago– the uncertainty of the path, and yet, the conviction of what you have to offer the world. You're amazing, and you inspire me. <3
Congrats on being a warrior, it's not an easy fight, which I now understand way too well. Blogging is incredibly cathartic and will connect you to other survivors around the world who are also making a new 'camino' each and every day. Wishing you much success! Let your voice be a blessing to others and it will in turn bless you in ways you could never expect.
Oh Patti, I am so happy to read this. Even if it is not an easy process, I can hear the hope in every line. Life after cancer might be just different, but I believe it actually might have more meaning. I am right here next to you!
LOVED this lady. You are such an inspiration!
My eyes are teary! I love this & I absolutely love you for teaching me so much in the short time we have knowing each other. You are an inspiration and an amazing woman & fighter! Much love success in your new life! <3 xoxo
Thank you so much. You inspire me and keep following your dreams. xo
Thank you my Virgo sister. You make me smile 🙂
Thank you Ann. I know this is all familiar to you but we will get there one step at a time. xo
Thank you for all the support butterfly. Wishing you much health. xo
I am humbled by your kind words Laurita. Thank you so much for your support mi amiga. xo
Thank you so much Sujeiry. Wishing you all the best with all your goals. You will go places, I am sure. xo
Thank you. I hope one day we don't have fight this horrible disease. Keep up the excellent work you do. xoxo
Patti, cancer is like an unwelcome guest – we didn't want it, and it will revisit at any time. But it does make us more aware of each moment and how lucky we are to be alive – so seize the day sister.
Sonal