Life is hard. Over the years, I have experienced difficult situations, or at least what I thought were difficult at the time, but nothing compares to what I have gone through this year.
When I tell you that life can change in an instant, I truly mean it.
Right now, I am navigating a new diagnosis and many unexpected changes.
Some days I feel lost and overwhelmed. Other days I feel calm and hopeful. The emotions come in waves.
This new chapter in my life has been eye-opening, to say the least.
Everything Changes
My routines are no longer the same. I used to take my daughter to school every day, and for the last couple of months, I haven’t been able to. My parents and husband have stepped in as caregivers, helping me with everyday tasks that once felt so simple and automatic.
My skincare routine? I barely know what that looks like right now. Most days, I just try to wash my face and maybe put on a cream or two.
Even getting out of bed in the morning can feel like a challenge. Where did my energy go? Most of my clothes no longer fit, and sometimes looking in the mirror feels unfamiliar because I hardly recognize the woman staring back at me.
At times, it feels like learning how to live all over again. Something as simple as getting through the day can become exhausting and frustrating.
Life Becomes a Blur
The past few months feel blurry. I mostly remember suffering, hospital visits, appointments, uncertainty, and trying to take things one day at a time.
As I write this, I’m listening to peaceful music and holding on to hope.
What I Am Trying to Do
Right now, I’m trying to take life one day at a time. I cry when I need to. I let myself feel angry and frustrated. But afterward, I remind myself that I want to live, heal, and experience life fully again.
I pray constantly because I believe prayer has healing power. I welcome prayers from family, friends, and even strangers from different backgrounds and religions.
Some days I only respond to messages or talk when I feel emotionally able to, and I’ve learned to give myself permission to do that without guilt. The people who truly love me understand that this season of my life is not easy.
I try to walk for at least 15 minutes a day. Before all of this, I was going to the gym, lifting weights, and feeling strong and confident in my body. Now, simply being able to walk for a few minutes feels like a victory.
It hurts to feel like I lost so much progress, but I remind myself that this season is temporary. I will get there again.
I still try to work on goals because I need to believe there is a future worth fighting for. Even though I’m no longer working in the corporate world right now, I still believe I can create something meaningful, just like many other mothers have done.
I’ve also learned to be honest with my friends. If I’m not ready for visitors, I let them know. This process has been filled with ups and downs, and sometimes I simply need space. Real friends want to support you, but they also need honesty about what you can handle emotionally.
And I try to show up for my daughter in whatever ways I can. I say “try” because some days my energy is very limited, but on the days I do feel better, I make those moments count.
Whenever I start feeling discouraged, my husband reminds me that this season is temporary. His support has carried me through some of my hardest days.
Books That Help in the Healing Process
A dear friend gifted me these two books, and they have been such a blessing throughout my healing journey.
One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are is a thoughtful book that encourages readers to recognize everyday blessings and cultivate gratitude, even during life’s most difficult seasons. Through personal reflection and practical exercises, it invites you to find hope, joy, and purpose in the midst of life’s challenges.
Before bed, I like to put on calming music and work on the word search puzzles. They give me something positive to focus on and help me relax. My daughter enjoys doing them too, and sometimes we take turns completing the puzzles together.
Those simple moments have become a special part of our healing journey and a reminder that even in difficult seasons, we can still find peace and joy in the little things.
Final Thoughts
When life changes after a diagnosis, it can feel overwhelming and isolating. But if there is one thing I am learning, it is that you cannot go through difficult seasons alone.
Hold on to hope. Lean on the people who love you. Accept help when you need it. Give yourself grace during the hard days and pray.
Best wishes,
Mel
