Last week was a blur

Well I have to admit last week went by so fast I lost track of all time. I have spent most of it going through medical tests and talking to - well - everyone. The reason is that I have been diagnosed - again.

Yup - it is true - it is back. The doctors are trying to figure out if is a metastasis of my original breast cancer or if it is a new one. Not that it really matters - because frankly I did not want to do this all over again. I thought I was clear. It had been 6 years.

I have to admit that I cannot stop thinking about women else where in the world and that I am so lucky. You are probably thinking - WHAT? LUCKY? Are you crazy?

Yup, I feel lucky because I know that although the news I got is not great - I also know that I still can hold hope because with the technology and available care at my disposal I still have a fighting chance to extend my life. In other parts of the world I would not.

I am glad that I am part of the World Conference on Breast Cancer Foundation, because I know that the work we all do is working toward giving all women a fighting chance.

152 days to the Conference

It is hard to believe that in 152 day delegates from around the world will be gathering in Hamilton, Ontario for the World Conference on Breast Cancer. Some will be greeting old friends - others will be meeting new ones.

One thing is certain is that it will be five jam packed days of sharing, enlightenment, inspiration, hope and the building of long lasting fruitful relationships.

To learn more about the conference go to www.wcbcf.ca

Happy Holidays

Bouncing along the surface

This month has been one filled with family, friends and festivities. It seems that every night we are out and about or our home is filled with guests. Lots of laughter and good hearted spirit. Today, I thought I would take a few moments to reflect and recharge before galloping off to get a tree and then on to yet another event.

In my reflection I think about the importance of engaging with our kids - our friends - our families - our coworkers and our acquaintances. We get so busy it is easy to bounce along the surface of life without actually experiencing anything. This seems to be the order of the moment at the holiday events where small talk and joviality rules.

I have been making an effort to really talk to people this year. I inquire, thoughtfully listen and have been surprised at what I have learned about people whom I have known for years (and clearly not really known). It has enriched the holidays for me.

I have always known that taking that time is so important, especially with my kids. I recognize that my relationship with my youngest daughter is richer because of the investment. What I had not seen was how significant the return would be from reaching out to others.

People never stop amazing me - or their ability to help me be better just from knowing them.