Badges of Honor

Being a cancer survivor means that I have scars.  For me, my scars are both external and internal.  Externally, people can physically see that I have undergone some type of medical procedure because I have several scars on my neck. One is on the upper side of my neck and the other is located a little lower from my neck. These scars are all that remains from the procedure I underwent from the insertion and removal of my port a cath which was used to administer the deadly dosages of chemo.  Internally, well people can’t see my scars.  Due to my type of cancer being inoperable, I have the residual of my tumor that is still inside me covering my heart, lungs ribs and will stay there with me for the rest of my life.  Also, internally the chemo and radiation caused some scaring on my left lung and throat, which in turn causes my throat to get dry easily, and last but not least I continue to experience daily excruciating pain from the aftermath of my cancer battle.  Although, everyone can visibly see my external scars I know no one would ever imagine the magnitude of my internal scars.  

Personally, I forget about my external scars until I notice someone looking at the one on my neck which doesn’t bother me because I wear my scars proudly.  Thanks to God, I have overcome so much to be here today, trying to live my best life and fulfill my mission.  If you have internal or external scars like me, don’t be ashamed or embarrassed of them, they are your badges of honor indicating that you are a strong person who has overcome impossible obstacles and are here today to show that with God by your side, it is possible to overcome the impossible challenges, survive,and move forward.  Also, know that the scars don’t define you, they are only part of you and your life story.

#NeverGiveUp