A few weeks ago, one of my sisters told me that her best friend, whom she’s known for over 50 years, had been diagnosed with breast cancer. This woman, a retired schoolteacher in her mid-60s, is now undergoing various surgeries and chemotherapy. To encourage her, my sister kept saying: “You’re doing it. You’re doing what you have to do.” Her friend adopted those words as her personal mantra—“I’m doing it—” and is fighting hard to get well.
Those who bravely face such a devastating illness rouse in me a tremendous admiration. Over my lifetime, I’ve had a few health scares, but none of them lasted long, and I escaped unscathed. Some of my friends and family members have been less fortunate, and their courage and willpower in the face of these misfortunes are awe-inspiring.
