In my darkest days in the oncology unit, I promised myself that if I ever got into remission one day, I would become a stronger, healthier and better version of my precancer self.
Interpretation
This quote reflects a commitment to personal growth and resilience in the face of adversity.
Suleika Jaouad's quote embodies a powerful promise made during a time of deep personal struggle. It signifies the determination to not only survive but to emerge stronger and improved after facing a serious illness. The acknowledgment of darker days in life highlights the transformative journey of recovery and the resolve to become a better version of oneself, illustrating the strength of the human spirit in overcoming hardships.
In practice
In a speech about overcoming personal challenges.
After my diagnosis at age 22 with leukemia, the second piece of news I learned was that I would likely be infertile as a result of chemotherapy. It was a one-two punch that was my first indication that issues of cancer and sexual health are inextricably tied.
Just a few years ago, at the age of 22, I learned I had an aggressive form of leukemia. I needed intensive chemotherapy and a bone marrow transplant to save my life. Back then, my doctors told me that I had a 35 percent chance of surviving my transplant.
When I was diagnosed with cancer at age 22, I learned just how much cancer affects families when it affects individuals.
I remember my first day of chemo as if it were yesterday, hanging up my favorite summer dress like an athlete retiring a jersey. Within a few weeks, my waist had shrunk to a double zero - the size it was when I was in the sixth grade. My cheek bones jutting out. Rings under my eyes. Skin the color of chalk.
Today, my brother and I share almost identical DNA, the result of a successful bone marrow transplant I had last April using his healthy stem cells. But Adam and I couldn't be more different.
I'll never go so far to call cancer a gift. It's a really terrible disease. It's taken the lives of so many of my fellow friends in the oncology unit. But like any life-interrupted moment, there are silver linings.
Have you ever been hurt and the place tries to heal a bit, and you just pull the scar off of it over and over again.
The reason it was so scary was that there was only one climber capable of rescuing us, and that was Layton Kor, and he was in Colorado.
I went to Iraq in 2004 because I believe in doing my duty, not because I agreed with the war.
I warn you against shedding blood, indulging in it and making a habit of it, for blood never sleeps.
Fear can make you do more wrong than hate or jealousy... fear makes you always, always hold something back.
Zoe readied her arrows. Grover lifted his pipes. Thalia raised her shield and I noticed a tear running down her cheek. Suddenly it occurred to me: this had happened to her before.She had been cornered on Half- Blood Hill. She'd willingly given her life for her friends. But this time she couldn't save us.
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