October + Pink = Breast Cancer Awareness Month

"My cancer scare changed my life. I'm grateful for every new, healthy day I have. It has helped me prioritize my life."

~Olivia Newton-John

 

Chances are, you know someone who has cancer or someone who's life has been touched by cancer.  Maybe a friend or a relative or a co-worker.  And as you all probably know, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.  When you are out at the mall, you see lots and lots of PINK.  Pink shirts and pink ribbons.  Slogans like "Fight Like a Girl" and "Save the Ta-tas."

Yesterday at my church, a brave and inspirational family shared their story with the congregation about the mother's battle with cancer.  This woman happens to work at the same company I do.  During the service, I decided this was definitely going to be the topic of my Starfish. 

In 2010, Angie was diagnosed with stage four breast cancer and was told she had 1-5 years to live.  Their story is so inspirational as they talk about their journey and how they keep their faith. I encourage you to watch the clip below and see for yourself.

http://sermons.hopewdm.org/ 
The sermon is from 10/21/2012 and is titled "Wandering." The Sanders' story starts at about 20:00 and is continued at 29:40.

My Challenge to you this Week: 

Be thankful.  Be faithful.  If you pray, pray for Angie.  Pray for every woman who is battling breast cancer.  Don't wait to live, really live, until you are told you may not have much time left.  Live your life to the absolute fullest - and love, love to the absolute fullest.

Today's Starfish

I was very touched by Angie and her family's story.  I was inspired by their faith and their raw, real conviction that they shared with hundreds of people.  I got up extra early today and stopped at Starbucks.  I bought 4 coffees - one for my friend who was celebrating her birthday, one for my other friend and one for Angie.  Angie and I do not work in the same department or even on the same floor, but I wanted to share with her how deeply touched I was by her story.  I took the coffee and a card down to her and let her know I was at church on Sunday and that I was praying for her and her family.  She was so surprised - she got goosebumps and tears sprang to her eyes.  It was a very moving moment and a great way to start my Monday.