First of all thank you all for your kind messages and support! It’s strange how quickly your life can turn completely upside down. However, reading your kind messages and having supportive friends and family has been very uplifting. Some of you were even brave enough to share your personal stories with me. So I decided to share my story with you too. Even though I prefer not to talk about personal things here on SoNailicious I think this time it’s necessary because I feel that sharing this story may save someone’s life.
You see, there are numerous Cancer Awareness campaigns but it seems like they are often ignored by general public. Some celebrities doing this and that on Instagram, a poster at the bus stop, but how does that relate to you? Cancer seems like something you’ll never have to deal with. Especially if you’re young, healthy and full of energy but don’t be so sure.
When my husband had to have emergency surgery 3 weeks ago it was a shock, but everyone, including the doctors, thought it was just a burst appendix. A week later he was recovering quickly so I naturally thought that the worst was over. But when the pathology results came back there was one result nobody had expected… yes, cancer. In our particular case it was found and removed early but it’s not over yet. There will be another operation and 6 months of chemotherapy before the odds are really in our favour.
So what causes cancer in a very fit young person with an excellent diet? In this case, probably an infection of the appendix 8 months ago that never really went away. But that’s just our particular case, it could be any number of things.
That’s why I’m sharing this story with you today. I want you to know how tricky cancer is. It doesn’t choose just certain type of people, it can happen to anyone. And when it begins, cancer is not like a flu when you have a running nose and temperature and you know something is wrong. Sometimes cancer can develop without any major signs and symptoms.
So if you, or anyone you know, has a strange sensation, a slight nagging pain or an uncomfortable feeling, go and see a doctor and get it checked. There is no need to expect cancer from every little pain, I’m all up for positive attitude. But if it’s more constant, why not err on the side of caution and have it checked out, just in case?
To re-inforce this message I created this Pink Ribbon nail art. Even though the Pink Ribbon is a symbol of breast cancer, I dedicate this manicure to cancer awareness in general. Because I want you to keep checking and listen to your body in general, listen to your friends and family and if there are some signals – go and get it checked!
Used: Sea Siren Sailaway Heather, Pamper Me Pink, Leucosia, Kester Black Sugar Daddy (silver tips) and Essie Good To Go top coat.
Wearing: Love Heart ring.
– Maria, xx
P.S. I want to thank once again everyone who supported us one way or another. It really means a lot. It does not feel anymore like we have to go through it alone but we feel a very powerful support of our nail art family – you guys! Some of you even supported us financially via SoNailicious Boutique (here’s all info about how you can help). I will make sure you will get some extra gifts in your orders – just another way of me saying thank you for your support. Words can’t express how much I appreciate it!
Shira says
I think it so wonderful of you for getting personal in the hopes that it can help others. I can’t imagine how difficult it is for you and your husband right now and I’m thinking of you. A beautiful manicure with a courageous and powerful message. Sending lots of love.
Maria @SoNailicious says
Thank you Shira for your kind words <3
Ketaki says
Hey Maria! It is sometimes better to pour your heart out with the people who like you. It is really heartbreaking to know about Joseph. We met a few months back and i felt that i know him for a long time!… you are so right about cancer… one day it is not there and the next day it crops up. We all need to be very careful as the times are such.
You stay strong and believe in the nature. Joseph leads a very healthy lifestyle. He will be cancer free soon. The nail community is there to help and support you.
Much love to you and Joseph. Prayers.
Maria @SoNailicious says
Thank you Ketaki! Yes, the support from the nail art community was overwhelming! And it certainly helped to feel more positive about this situation. And yes, especially now after hearing so many stories from my readers I feel like we’re going to be ok too :) Thanks God we live in 2015, medicine is so advanced now and the doctors really know how to treat cancer now. So everything is in our favour. xx
Manases Andrea says
The message behind this mani is the most important. I wish your husband strength and power to fight cancer. I had breast cancer and got through 2 surgeries and 6 month chemo. It was the most horrible period of my life, but my family standing by my side and helping me, I succeed and survived. I never thought that I am going to deal with these kind of health issues at 37. Well, as you mentioned it can happen to anyone. I am sure that with the time everything will be OK with your hubby, just keep believing! I wish you both the best!
Cecilia says
Thank you Maria! Sharing with us wasn’t easy, I’m certain, but I’m sure it was inspiring as we all heard your voice, trying to bring awareness yet again to this issue. Cancer is a sneaky freak. Once it find its way in, it’s so hard to throw it out! It is only then we realize how frail and strong we are and only then we see the most important ‘thing’ in the world: LOVE.
We’re still sending loads of positive thoughts and love vibes your way! Keep strong, we’ll try to support you in any way possible!
Shell says
Thank you for daring to be personal Maria. I know that sharing your story probably wasn’t the easiest thing to do, but hopefully you’ll inspire others to do the same and/or get a niggling health issue checked out. It’s certainly reminding me to do just that.
So sorry to hear about Joseph too. Cancer is a bitch & treatment won’t be a picnic, but even through hardship light can and will be found. Both of you will get through this, just keep the faith. Sending all the positive vibes in the world to you both.
Norlin says
Sorry to hear about Joseph Maria! I saw something about him going for surgery but had no idea what was going on. So true that it can strike anyone. It’s good that you guys did pick it up early though and here’s to a full recovery and remission. xx
Anita @StyleThosenails says
Thanks for sharing your experiences. I agree one should listen to their body. Beautiful manicure as always. All the best to your hubby sending warm wishes and prayers :)