In July 2010, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. To say it was a shock would be an understatement. It turned my entire world upside down. I was a newlywed, I was happy. Cancer was nowhere in my plan.
My diagnosis went from “small and curable” to a very complicated case. I found myself slipping into a very dark place. That’s when I made the call to Gilda’s Club.
My therapist had recommended the Cancer Wellness Center when I was first diagnosed. It sounded too clinical so I avoided calling in for several months. When I called, the receptionist answered the phone, “Gilda’s Club.” I almost hung up thinking I had the wrong number.
She handled my call very professionally and informed me that the two organizations had merged. She was kind and encouraged me to attend a new members meeting. I agreed reluctantly.
My husband drove me to Gilda’s. I was walking with a cane and in a very skeptical state of mind. I told him to stay close. “If everyone is in there crying I am out of here!” But they weren’t crying. They were smiling and laughing. I could not believe these people had cancer!
Forgetting About Cancer
The club was welcoming and inviting, I felt like I was in someone’s home. It was love at first sight for me. It was the first day I forgot about my cancer.
The volunteer described the mission of Gilda’s Club and the various activities. We toured the facility. I found myself excited again! I went home and journaled about how alive I felt again. I was thrilled I had found a new home!
Due to cancer treatment complications, it took me months to get back to Gilda’s. In March, I joined the Wellness Group. I was amazed at the openness of the group and the support that was available to me.
I attended the Healing Arts workshop. The instructor welcomed me to the group and helped me get started. For two hours, I painted. I had never painted before, but I was really drawn to it. I loved it.
A New Beginning
For the first time in a long time, I felt alive again. It felt like a new beginning. On the way home, I found myself singing in the car! I couldn’t believe it.
I felt my heart open up again.