PEP in Your Step: Week 3

For this week, there are two quotes that stood out to me.

“There are only two days in the year that nothing can be done. One is called Yesterday and the other is called Tomorrow.” ~Dalai Lama

“Be Here Now”. Make every day great; make every moment meaningful; be mindful of being PRESENT. Given our stressful and restrictive environment the last two years, coupled with a difficult diagnosis, it can be very challenging to be present, to be aware and to be mindful of what is happening at this very moment. There are several tools that are at everyone’s disposal to achieve this; HOPE and CONNECTION with a community. As Lin Yutang said, “Hope is like a road in the country; there was never a road, but when many people walk on it, the road comes into existence.”

Connecting with others who have gone through the same experiences creates new bonds, relieves anxiety and is the best way to learn about what to expect. One of the key components of  the Patient Empowerment Program is the community of support. Just last week, two women who met in the Sisterhood of Support group expressed an interest in connecting further. Both had experienced the same diagnosis and breast reconstruction procedure. The invaluable connections know no boundaries of age or other differences. In this situation, the age gap is 21 years but the bond is fostered by their shared experience.  After matching them, I received this wonderful insight and testimony to their new bond:

“This platform allowed me to ask questions, receive information and to hear my beautiful pink sisters’ stories. I’m honored to be part of such an amazing group of thriving women.” -L

“When I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I felt I was free-falling. The program was my safety net that introduced me to other women and their journey made me realize I was not alone.” -T