Between now and October 13, our employees, volunteers and clients will share some of their thoughts and reflections on Regina Brett’s life lessons. Today, board member Gayle Bloom and staff member Linda Bewley share their thoughts on “throwing pity parties to the curb and finding the joys in life.”

Board member Gayle Bloom

“After being diagnosed with breast cancer 8 years ago, my oncologist said something very interesting that became my life position… she said ‘live your life.’ That was her answer when I asked ‘why me?’ She also said to live with fear and anxiety each day would be to ‘not live your life.’

It was some of the best advice I was given. The journey was much more palatable with this positive life lesson.”

~ Gayle Bloom, board member

From right to left: Laura and Linda Bewley

“After receiving a cancer diagnosis, I must admit I spent some time having a pity party — why me? I try to do everything right! My husband and I have little kids to raise! I haven’t done all I wanted to do yet!! Then, one day, as I was sitting watching my children laughing and playing, two important things hit me: first, this attitude was causing me to miss out on the joys of living, and second, I certainly wasn’t ready to get busy dying.”

~ Linda Bewley, 20 year survivor and staff member