Today, July 24/19, marks my one year chemo anniversary and I want to acknowledge my “support group”.
Taken exactly one year ago (July 24/18), this was my final chemo session, with my day to day “support group”. I really don’t know how I would have gotten through that year of treatment without these individuals right here!
Neil: Where do I even begin with you?! You own my heart. I love how you love. You support me on so many levels. You accept me as I am, allowing me space to do what I need to do, while inspiring me to become a better version of myself. I cherish what we have and am so madly in love with you 😍
Laura: my sister from another mister. We’ve been friends for more than half our lives and you’ve been my rock for pretty much every life event I’ve had as an adult and more. I don’t have words to describe what you and your friendship mean to me ❤️.
Hayers: Neelam and Sumeet, I don’t know how the hell I would have survived if I didn’t have you guys. I’m grateful to your parents for the love and support they provided so you could be there for me. Despite having full time demanding careers, a new baby and all other life stuff, you showed up for me when I needed even before I realized I needed it ❤️.
Kavs: Living together can have its challenges but you stepped up for both myself and Jaya❤️
Kavs was missing from the above picture as she was watching my nephew and also decorating the house for post chemo celebrations ❤️
Everyone’s favorite Massi. This picture was one of many times Kavs helped with Jaya so I could rest.
Somjis: Sheen and Nish, despite living in different cities, you were here in spirit, and Nish you made yourself physically present every time the Hayers weren’t so you could be there for me ❤️
This picture represents my only getaway during chemo. I went with the intention of wig shopping after a horrible experience locally. These guys pampered both myself and J ❤️
Going through hard times in life really do help you evaluate your priorities. Or maybe it’s something that comes with age as well. I find myself becoming even more selective about who I wish to spend my time, and therefore energy, with. I’m selective about who I share what with and who I make myself vulnerable in front of. I pay more and more attention to energies around me and how I’m left feeling after certain conversations and interactions.
Most of my life I’ve done things out of “obligation” and because I “should”. I dislike that word and do my best not to use it. I’m working on reminding myself that this is my life and I need to design it according to what makes my heart happy. Sometimes that includes feeling guilt when you start making different choices but I’m learning it’s self-care. I’ve always felt if you don’t take care of yourself you can’t be there for others. I have too many people counting on me and too much to do yet, leaving me no choice but to protect my energy and mental health!
I have a circle of people who aren’t even listed who contribute to making my life (and me!) better. Loved ones I talk to everyday, still others who I don’t talk to daily but feel their love and good vibes when we do interact ❤️
Thank you for reading ❤️
