my mom says, there are people who are in your life for a season, reason or a lifetime. i believe there are folks who show up for all three.
almost exactly a year ago, i was diagnosed with stage one invasive ductal carcinoma. that’s breast cancer to us lay people, and it rocked my world. doctors repeatedly said “it was probably nothing” given my young age and health.
they were wrong.
it was a wednesday morning when the doctor called. i was getting ready for work and ran downstairs when i heard my phone ring at 8:00 am. i knew it must have been someone important.
“hi tashira, we received your biopsy results. listen. we did find a little cancer.” i’m still lost on how doctors can find a “little” cancer. either you have it or you don’t, and i had it.
but every journey is a blessing, even if it’s filled with pain. having breast cancer allowed me to receive love in an unimaginable way. family, friends, folks on the internet, strangers in line at trader joe’s, all reminded me that this battle was not mine alone.
READ: Why Your Vibe Attracts Your Tribe
my tribe swooped in like superheros ready to slay cancer by my side. they brought food before i was hungry, stopped by for visits before i was lonely, sent affirmations by text before i doubted my ability to heal and made me laugh before i was consumed by physical pain. they blessed me.
READ: Join My Fight to #SlayCancerNow
please know that my story about defeating cancer isn’t mine alone. every warrior needs armor bearers, and my friends carried my sword and shield. i am eternally grateful for their love and support.
in a moment when i could have been consumed by darkness, they were my light.
to aj, bryanna, chinonye, jo, joel, kendra, kimberly, margo, sterlyn and my love onrae — we got each other forever and always.
Wow the power of love from friends! This is both beautiful and amazing.
Author
thanks so much for reading! it’s truly been a blessing.