The Definition of Survivor
by Pat Godfrey McRee

Here’s something you really need to know. Write it on your mirror so it greets you each morning.

YOU ARE A CANCER SURVIVOR.

If you didn’t fall off the chair and die when they told you it was cancer, you’re a survivor! And you thought you had to wait five years to make that claim. Surprise! Whether your diagnosis was years ago or yesterday, even if you’re dealing with metastatic disease, you can claim that title.

What you are not is a helpless victim. And you’re only a cancer patient when you’re inside the doctor’s office. The rest of the time you’re a powerful person who has sustained some losses, maybe a breast or part of one, some energy, possibly hair…But coming your way is wisdom gained from the fight of your life.

“Okay,” you say, “If I’m all that powerful, why the knocking knees?” Have you ever started a new journey when you weren’t apprehensive? Faced any crisis for the first time without a knot in your stomach?

Extinguishing fear becomes easier when you’re informed about breast cancer and you act on that knowledge.
 

Remember, you are the definition of SURVIVOR!