Time...

Time flies. That is what I have come to realize. The world is constantly changing and so are we. Time is just a measure and how we live our lives is a reflection of who we are. When things are hard and you aren't happy, time tends to move slower than we want. Time tends to go too quickly when we get to relax or enjoy things for a few minutes. Unfortunately, cancer sometimes puts time limits on life. It does not discriminate against age, gender, race, it affects everyone. 


This past weekend I had the opportunity and privilege of attending the first ever Relay for Life at my high school, Walsh Jesuit. I was discharged from the hospital on Saturday afternoon and then headed to Walsh to be a part of the opening ceremony. I was honored to be able to speak and share part of my story. It was kind of crazy for me because I never thought I would be giving a speech about cancer or having a team made in my name (#Teamemily, THANK YOU MACKENZIE AND FRIENDS!). The whole event was very cool and it truly set in that time does fly. I just graduated last June, and I hardly recognized some of the students that were there. Times change and it's amazing to see how much has changed in a year. The relay efforts at Walsh were incredible and I am so thankful to be a part of the community. Thank you to all that participated, to the administration, and to the American Cancer Society, it means so much to see people fighting to stop this deadly disease. 


Another Relay took place this weekend...Relay for Life at SAINT LOUIS UNIVERSITY! This was something I was looking forward to participating in, long before I was diagnosed. SLU holds one of the most successful college relays in the country! Again, I had the privilege of writing something to be read out loud during the Fight Back Ceremony. I tried to keep it a little surprise from my friends and asked one of the most amazing speakers I know, my friend, George, to read it on my behalf. It was really great hearing that people enjoyed my speech and my story. I also got a wonderful introduction from my my lovely best friend Alex to start it off. Thank you so much to the Relay committee (Katie) for asking me to speak and to George and Alex who spoke on my behalf. I wish I could have been there relaying with you all! But, I was there in spirit.


 Time is a fluid concept and I believe it's measured in value...how "well" you spent your time. How are you spending your time today? What are you doing with your time tomorrow? Are you making the most of it? I know I do not always use my time in the best ways and it is often "wasted." But, you can never have wasted time if you are spending it with people you love or doing something you love, anything that makes you happy. Cancer can take away time, but are you going to sit back and let it?


Well, like I said, time does fly. Whether we want it to or not. Enjoy your time wisely because every second spent unhappy, angry, or doing something you don't enjoy, is a second wasted. Cancer isn't the only ugly thing in this world that steals time, there are many things. Don't let ugly feelings steal any more of your time, it's just not worth it. Today is a new day, and I am excited to report, one day closer to surgery! Tomorrow I will be admitted for my LAST CHEMOTHERAPY before surgery! 10-11 weeks ago, I never thought I would make it to week 10, and it's here, and I'm getting through it! I am so excited to report that tomorrow is Mackenzie's 17th birthday, and Daisy and Lily (my pups) 3rd birthdays! Lots going on tomorrow and through the week. Well, I hope you all have a fantastic day and enjoy all the time that was given to you! Make the most of it, love and peace coming your way!