I am a C-A-N-C-E-R-V-I-V-O-R …‘what kind of survivor are you?

/ Yinka (Anthonia) Gansallo-Lawrence

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The last time I checked for the definition of survivor in the dictionary, I was really amazed to know that it signifies left-over, remainder or residue. Did you just raise your eye brows in surprise like I did? That is rather crude, right? How can? After that rough journey, that’s it? ‘Someone is labeled a residue? Hmmm.

According to www.thesaurus.com the term survivor means “one who outlives another,” from survive. Meaning “one who has a knack for pulling through adversity” Okay, now I like this better!

I remember the year after my cancer surgery, I was not very comfortable when Susan G Komen sent me the 3 day walk participation paperwork and addressed me as Survivor Yinka! I had to go back memory lane to reconnect the link to the date of the diagnosis and then, oooh! That’s true – I did survive the 12-hour-marathon-cancer surgery. Oh, yes, I am actually a survivor, and then a certain kind of boldness, calmness and grace empowered me to be an advocate for the cause! – I then eased into the program and was ready to carry on proudly with my survival-ship story. Yes! I did survive Medullary Thyroid Cancer!

So, for every one of us that knows someone who’s overcome or still battling one kind of challenge in life (not necessarily cancer) either a fatal accident, relationship breakdown, a certain illness, the loss of a loved one, an addiction, a broken heart, job loss, divorce, rejection or depression. The moment we are able to acknowledge that there is a problem, face the solution boldly, we are able to move on into another sphere of productive lifestyle – we have automatically also become Survivors! Even embracing someone close to you and helping them deal with the situation qualifies you as a survivor. Why? Because you connected one-on-one to help ease the much needed transition. Yes, you did!

As we approach National Cancer Awareness month,’hoping someone will look at the term “survivor” in a more approachable way as opposed to seeing it as “residue or remnants’. To embrace the term like a soldier at the war front with one thing in mind: Victory by all means! To connect with a cause that celebrates survivorship and be a blessing unto others. Only those deeply and personally touched can understand the impact of a tragedy, which I think can classify anyone with a close encounter to be nominated as a survivor. I see survivorship as a legacy to behold, a surplus in life, beauty for ashes and finally – a proof that there’s really a God that works miracles in us and changes our tests into testimonies! I am a living example!

 May God help us all.

Yinka.

Coming soon:

American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk event on OCT 17th.

 

38 thoughts on “I am a C-A-N-C-E-R-V-I-V-O-R …‘what kind of survivor are you?”

  1. This is a very deep and personal one Yinka. Five years ago I lost my beloved aunt Toyin to ovarian cancer and we still miss her terribly, I wish she had survived her surgeries and chemo therapies too but God knows best. I will love to be a part of the upcoming walk in October, it will be a great way to remember her.

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    • ‘During the WALK last year, half way through – we all stopped by a field called “Garden of hope” – its a memoriam for all those who’s lost their lives to cancer – it was one of the deepest and touching moment of the day – we all gave a minute of silence, signed a love card with the name of someone we’ve lost to cancer, said a short prayer and continued with the WALK.

      Kemi, I am sorry about Aunt Toyin. Be rest assured that she’s resting well in the Lord. One of the reasons I give for walking is also to promote closure, especially when we’ve lost someone dear to us. Every stride, every step, every movement in support of a cause is a given benefit of closure to either get over the pain, remember that special someone, give awareness and walk into victory, knowing this too shall pass. ‘Looking forward to WALK Fairmont park with you, Girl! 🙂
      Thanks.
      Yinka.

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  5. Waoh! Yinka this is some deep stuff right here! Lol. Girl, you sure make it sound like, yeah its just a boo boo, get a bandaid or something! Lol.
    Good to know am not alone in this. I am so grateful for this write up. I had my diagnosis just last month, after so much persuation from family members. .
    My surgery is sch for Oct and I know I will make it through like you with God on my side.
    Thanks, seems like I know you already. LOL.
    Keep the cause moving girl, u sure rock the message.
    AY
    NY.

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    • Dear Ay, you sounded just like me 20 years ago! well, literally (not that old, LOL )
      You are in good hands, trust me!
      You have already confessed it with your mouth that ‘God is on your side” and He will surely see you through. I will keep you in my prayers. Got your contact infor in my mail box, and will be in touch before and after your surgery. And as we all walk – I will proudly add your names to the page of “survivors” – thanks for reaching out!

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  6. On behalf of the Silver tapes ladies at Franklin reform therapy group, we support you antonia, , and will be walking with you. In memory of the 28 members lost to cancer over 10 years.
    Please send more information.

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  9. I lost my mom to breast cancer. Today I am an advocate in support of early detection and awareness. I support the cause and will walk with you in October. Thanks For Sharing.

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  12. Great write up sister; very inspiring piece. I support your passion for doing this, not many people are able to use their experiences or testimony to bless others.
    Especially when it’s something much avoided. You are unique. I support the cause.

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  23. My dear friend, you’re indeed a living testimony. God has position you for greatness in every area, that’s why your story is different. Nice write up, God bless.
    BFF

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