08/06/2026
While I’m grateful that those who have faced cancer are honored with a special day, I’ve never quite connected with the word survivor.
For me, survivor can sometimes keep us tied to the fear — the fear of it returning, the fear of what may happen next, the fear that quietly lingers in the background.
Of course, we should stay aware and take care of our health, but we must also be careful not to let fear become the lens through which we live our lives.
After cancer, it’s easy to become so focused on not getting sick again that we forget something incredibly important: we are still here. We are alive. We are growing. We are living.
That’s why I prefer the word thriver.
A thriver doesn’t simply exist after cancer — they embrace life, find meaning in the journey, celebrate each day, and choose joy over fear.
So today, to every person who has walked this path: congratulations. Look how far you’ve come. Look at the strength you’ve discovered, the lessons you’ve learned, and the life you’re continuing to create.
May we spend less time fearing what could happen and more time appreciating what is happening right now.
Here’s to thriving, not just surviving. 🤍🧿