Hi Everyone,
I recently had my 61st birthday. It was a fun day with lots of surprises from my husband Ken. We had a great time.
While celebrating, the importance of my birthday struck me. I was here for another birthday. I was feeling good. My cancer was under control. I was truly blessed.
Reflecting on all of that made me start to think about all the things in my life that now held a special meaning. I began to realize just how special every event, both big and small, was.
So many to think of – our Friday outings to have breakfast and then grocery shop, our Sunday morning picture taking, our beach walks, our tv marathons, watching the action at our bird feeders, our time with our kids, our visits to our granddaughter, my Facebook conversations and connections, hanging out with my girlfriends, going to our favorite little bakery on Sunday mornings, getting a pumpkin coffee at Dunkin’ Donuts, walking our furbaby Cyrille, working with Diane Riche and Susan Friedman to raise awareness and funds for cancer research – all are moments in time that I now deeply appreciate and that remind me of how lucky I am to be here taking part in all these wonderful gems of everyday life. Even my time up at Mass General is special, spending time with the very people who are taking such good care of me and giving me these moments to cherish.
On the days when I am struggling with side effects, I will summon these moments, and feel a tremendous sense of gratitude for all I have. There is so much that we have that cancer cannot take away. Everything that happens in our day is special. The treasures are plenty – fluffy white clouds, rich fall colors, a good book, quiet moments with loved ones, simple gestures between friends – the list is endless. How lucky are we to be surrounded by so much joy. You just have to step back and feel it.
‘Til Next Time,
MJ Keenan