“Cancer is a word, not a sentence” James Diamon
Approximately 4 years ago, my grandma was diagnosed with liver cancer. At the time of her diagnosis, the doctors gave her six months to a year to live.
My grandma was spunky and tough.
She fought. Hard.
Audaciously. She tackled her cancer diagnosis head on and continued to live her life.
She decided to give those cancer cells a run for their money. She endured chemo treatments, multiple tests, drugs and surgery. She remained strong through all of it. She still made it the many hundreds of miles to my graduation. She put on a good face when around people.
She lived each moment in the moment because she did not know when God would take her away.
She inspired me with her commitment to thanking God for the blessings in her life, not the trials that could bring down her spirit.
She fought the good fight. On December 13th, 2014, she passed away.
A small aspect of the world wept because a beautiful soul left this earth.
She inspired me, because continually trusted God through all of the pain, all of the worry, and all of the trials. She never wavered because she trusted that God knew what He was doing that he had a plan.
God’s plan was not for cancer, illness and pain to exist. Our sin brought on this imperfect world.
The reality of going through pain on earth is that we can look toward Heaven. This world is hard, challenging, and painful.
But Heaven will be glorious.
Worshipping Jesus day in and day out.
My grandma did not fear death because it was leading her to her Creator. Needless to say, it was not any less painful to watch her go.
A year or so later, I still miss her. I graduate Nursing school in May, and she will not be in the audience beaming with pride.
The grief pierces my heart in some of the happiest moments because
I am following in her footsteps, pursuing a career in Nursing, and I wish that she could see me accomplish all that I have.
The grief hits me in waves. Sometimes I will never be the same because a piece of my heart left for heaven the day she passed away.
The reality of cancer is hard and it affects so many people.
As today is World Cancer Day, let us remember the people we lost in this battle, and pray for the people who are currently fighting cancer.
Keep praying that scientist will discover a cure that will help eliminate the problem of cancer in our world.
I will forever remember the brave and amazing woman who fought cancer for 3 years strength and grace.
I miss you, Grandma.
“Don’t count the days, make the days count.” Muhammad Ali
Fearless at Heart 