I got word today that the other mass in my breast is also cancer. It’s a lot larger than the first but it’s actually a Stage 1 cancer and it is not invasive. The sweet woman who called from the Cancer Center to break the news to me could not have been more kind. She sincerely apologized for having to give me the bad news. It was really nice. But still, and maybe I’m missing something here, but being told you have cancer…when you already have cancer…is somewhat anticlimactic. It’s like standing in a downpour and having someone tell you you’re about to get wet. “Sure, okay.” I thought. Good thing I already have my galoshes on!

Ever since posting my news yesterday I have had the most wonderful and energizing outpouring of love and support. I wish I could bottle it up and save it for a rainy day (see what I did there?). But honestly, it is beyond comforting to be surrounded by so many caring voices who are singing your praises and yelping your war cry. 

A smart friend of mine called this solidarity. She’s exactly right. They say,

 “If you want to go fast, go alone. But if you want to go far, go together.”

You have no idea how relieving it is to see so many people come together around me. Do you know how beautiful life can be? I feel less alone. I feel comforted. I also feel incredibly fortunate to have the experience where people I admire, respect and enjoy tell me they feel the same way about me. It is touchingly fantastic.

I will carry your votes of confidence with me throughout this journey. I cannot thank you all enough for your kind words, offers to help, and pats on the back. Thank you for being my friends. I am such a lucky girl. 

Give em’ hell.