Let’s Get This Show on the Road

I AM MORE THAN CANCER

The first time she went to chemo I remember her telling me that she was excited! “Let’s get this show on the road,” she said.

During the month of October 2011, our family received the news that my mother had Stage 4 Lung Cancer. Although the report had saddened me, I did not realize at the time that my Mother would display such a positive attitude that would radiate hope to those around her! The first time she went to chemo, I remember her telling me that she was excited!

“Let’s get this show on the road,” she said.

I knew that chemo made her nervous, but she was the first person I noticed ever to seem happy to have their cancer treatment. I must give it to my mother. She was never one to lay guilt trips. Often, I would be so stressed about work and feel torn. I wanted to be there for her, but I also had three daughters to care for at home. She understood my need to work and encouraged me to care for my own family. However, I would always visit her when the workday ended. On days that I could not visit her, I still called. We even learned how to Skype, so I could make her feel like she was at my house when she grew unable to come. She was so intrigued! Often she would laugh and tell others that I would carry her all around the house on my computer, and I did!  Technology can be such a beautiful tool these days!

One thing that will always stick out in my mind are the same conversations that we would have.

“Hey, Mom! How are you today?”

“Lisa, I am fine,” she would say.

Mom would be so confident sounding that she would almost have me convinced! Mom is okay? How could she possibly be fine?

“Are you sure?” I would ask.

I knew she could hear my reluctance by the tone of my voice.

“Yes, Lisa! I am getting better every day!”

At that moment, I would be humbled no matter where I was. Driving down the road, standing in my kitchen, etc. I would always hope to be half the person that she was if I ever had to deal with that situation.

Although I could go on and on about my mother, I can honestly say that I will always be proud to be her daughter. I will never forget her telling me about how she took her wig off at the cancer center. She taught others not to be ashamed and to love themselves through it all. During her fight with cancer, she always said that whether she lived here or went to be with Jesus, she was getting better every day!

Superbowl Sunday, February 3, 2013, mom made a Heavenly Touchdown. I held her hand as she ran all the way home. That year I learned where the real finish line was! Heaven cheered while a part of us said BOO! It was the GREATEST game in life to watch her run strong. If my mother were still here today, she would always be telling others! THERE ARE NO LOSERS!  SMILE! THE BEST IS YET TO COME!

ABOUT Lisa

Bio

  • Four Oaks, NC
  • Adult

Diagnosis

  • Lung or Bronchial Cancer

Primary Treatment

  • Chemotherapy
  • Radiation Therapy

Primary Cancer Center

  • Other

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