It is a long lazy Sunday afternoon and I sit here thinking back about my long journey with breast cancer. A dear friend of mine is dying as I sit here and I begin to wonder what has given us strength to continue these last few years. I realize that the one thing that has been consistent
in our lives has been our friendship, like sisters. I look up the word “sisters” in the Webster’s dictionary and read of course “a female who has one parent in common with another person”. The next meaning meant more “a close women friend especially of other women”. The one that really struck a chord was sisterhood: the empathy and loyalty that women feel for other women who have shared goals, experiences, or viewpoints.
I realize that my “sisters” have given me strength to keep fighting for life. They have taught me to remain strong and put one foot in front of the other and keep walking, head held high on my journey. They have taught me about truly living in the face of adversity and living life to its fullest. I have learned to always be proud of myself and allow people in my life.
Women Supporting Women has given me a soft place to land. They offer me hope and guidance. They offer an opportunity to all of us as “sisters” to gather and gain strength and support. Whenever we gather a small or large group, our circle grows. We as sisters can hold our hands together and give solace to one another, remembering those who have passed and offering hope to others. We offer our shoulders to cry on our arms to hug and hands to hold. WSW has enriched my life and I truly believe has also extended it. I feel useful and loved. I have a place I can give back and maybe help someone else who is starting their journey with some wisdom and advice. I have been privileged to have made some friendships that will last a lifetime and beyond. I have a circle of “sisters” that I trust to talk about my fears as well as my joys. I know when my time comes their arms will encircle me with their love.
 This disease has robbed me of a lot but in return it has given me more blessings that I can count. The largest of those blessings has been my “sisters”. I remember this as I hold my sisters hand for the last time with all my love, God Bless You.
For there is no friend like a sister
In calm or stormy weather;
To cheer one on the tedious way,
To fetch one if one goes astray,
To lift one if one totters down,
To strengthen whilst one stands
Christina Rossetti (1830-1894)
Sadly, we lost this wonderful advocate & friend on 12/14/2007.
Myra gave support and hope to many while struggling with her own battle. We miss you, Myra. |
