5 Lessons from Conquering Cancer and Nurturing a Child with Leukemia

Life often presents us with unexpected challenges, pushing us to our limits and testing our resilience. As a life coach, I have had the privilege of witnessing remarkable journeys of transformation. Today, I want to share with you the invaluable lessons I learned from being a six-time cancer survivor and raising a child with leukemia. These experiences have taught me profound truths about the human spirit, the power of love, and the strength we possess within. Through the darkest moments, I discovered five lessons that have shaped my perspective and guided me toward a life of purpose and inspiration.

Embrace Resilience:

In the face of adversity, we often underestimate our capacity to endure. Cancer and the challenges it brought into my life shattered my world, leaving me feeling fragile and vulnerable. However, I quickly realized that within each of us lies an innate resilience waiting to be awakened. Recognizing and embracing this resilience is crucial to overcoming any obstacle. It starts with a mindset shift (and this can happen again and again, sometimes multiple times a day)—a conscious decision to believe in your strength, to trust your inner voice, and to never give up. Embrace the resilience within you, for it holds the power to carry you through the storm.

Cultivate Gratitude:

Amidst the chaos of illness, it is easy to lose sight of the blessings that surround us. However, gratitude has the remarkable ability to transform our perspective. Through my journey, I learned to find gratitude even in the smallest moments. Whether it was a kind word from a loved one, a beautiful sunrise, or a simple act of kindness from a stranger, I found solace and strength in expressing gratitude. Cultivating a grateful heart brings forth positivity, nourishing our souls and helping us appreciate the beauty that still exists in our lives. Cultivating gratitude comes from receiving help. Asking for help can be challenging, as it often requires us to confront our vulnerability and overcome feelings of pride or self-sufficiency. When someone offers assistance and asks, "How can I help?" it can be difficult to articulate our needs, especially if we're accustomed to handling things on our own. However, accepting help doesn't diminish our strength; rather, it shows courage and humility. To overcome the reluctance to ask for help and the pride of feeling needy, it's essential to recognize that receiving assistance is a normal part of the human experience. By embracing a posture of acceptance and gratitude, we not only lighten our burdens but also allow others to express their care and support for us. Saying "yes" and "thank you" can become powerful affirmations of our interconnectedness and the strength found in community.

Forge Deep Connections:

The power of human connection is immeasurable, especially during times of adversity. As a parent raising a child with leukemia, I discovered the immense strength that emerges from the support of loved ones and the power of community. Sharing our stories, leaning on each other, and providing unwavering support can help us find solace, resilience, and hope. Surround yourself with individuals who uplift and inspire you. Our faith and our family grew stronger with each obstacle. Together, you can forge bonds that withstand the toughest of challenges, reminding us that we are never alone in our struggles.

Nurture Self-Compassion:

Facing cancer multiple times taught me the importance of self-compassion. During moments of pain, it is easy to blame ourselves or become consumed by negative self-talk. However, treating ourselves with kindness and understanding is essential for healing and growth. Embrace self-care practices, be gentle with yourself, and acknowledge that you are doing the best you can. Remember, your journey is unique, and every step forward is a testament to your strength and resilience.

Live with Purpose:

The battle against cancer revealed the fragility and preciousness of life. It urged me to reflect deeply on my purpose and the legacy I wanted to leave behind. Discovering a sense of purpose provided me with the motivation to keep fighting, not only for myself but also for my child. By aligning my actions with my values and passions, I found a renewed zest for life. I realized that true fulfillment lies in making a positive impact on the lives of others. Find your purpose, chase your dreams, and live a life that leaves an indelible mark on the world.

Life has a remarkable way of teaching us invaluable lessons through the most challenging circumstances. My experiences with cancer, as a patient, as a mom, as a best friend, and as a daughter, have imparted profound wisdom that I carry with me every day. Embracing these lessons helps me keep it all in perspective when life throws us a curveball and reminds us not to sweat the small stuff.

Until we meet again, stay curious, stay courageous, and keep shining your light bright. Take care, and see you soon, Shawna