As a caregiver, it is easy to get focused on the needs of others and not being present to my own emotions. This workshop involved a lot of self reflection. The writing revealed that I am braver and stronger than I give myself credit for. This workshop also helped me understand that despite the breadth and depth of known cancers, the fight to survive is similar in so many ways. I was reminded that the cancer community is filled with people who have the most beautiful hearts, willing to share their experiences. There is something so powerful when you risk emotional vulnerability and someone nods their head says, 'I totally get it. I know it isn't easy. I understand your feelings. I felt that way too. And those feelings are ok. " |
The workshop was truly life changing for me. I had been struggling to figure out my new path with this drastic unplanned change in my life. Attending VOR was very therapeutic for me. Being able to put my story into words and then sharing it on celebration night helped me move forward. It also opened many new doors for me. I took the story I wrote during the workshop and submitted it to a cancer journal. Not only did it get published, but was hired on as a regular contributor to Blood-Cancer.com. Attending the VOR workshop was one of the best things I have ever done! Highly recommend it to anyone impacted by cancer. " |
I find there is a tremendous power in defining the narrative of our disease. If we don’t write it, then it may be written for us. I think it is important to not fall for the role of victim in this battle, so telling our stories is a way of taking charge of our story. During my battle I had written some blogs and journal entries about the experience, but then I had put it away like an old photograph. I wanted the cancer to be in my distant past. However through VOR, I have found that we have an obligation to our fellow cancer survivors – and especially to those in middle of the battle - to share our journey. A burden shared is not as heavy. |