Today, I realized just how much Melanoma and the Strides for Melanoma walk has changed my life.
Being diagnosed with melanoma made me stop and take a good look at my life. I was so immersed in my work that I wasn’t taking care of myself both mentally and physically. I definitely wasn’t spending enough time on the important things in life.
Hearing the “C” word was very scary. I lost my mother to colon cancer in 2006. And my sister is a brave 7 year survivor of breast cancer.
I didn’t ever think it could possibly happen to me. However, it was a reality. I did what I had to do to get through the surgery and recovery. After I was living each day fearful that it could return.
Two years after my surgery (to the exact day) I came across Melanoma Network of Canada online and I signed up to walk Strides for Melanoma. I made a promise to myself that day that this was going to be the beginning of a new ME.
Ha! I wasn’t sure I could even walk 5k 😊!!
My husband bought me a Fitbit and we started walking every night. We bought bicycles and started riding. We started making healthier foods choices and in August last year, I joined Weight Watchers. Last October we joined a gym.
Today, As I got ready to walk I reflected back on my accomplishments.
- My work/life balance is right where it needs to be.
- We have logged over 600k riding our bikes
- I lost 40 pounds!!!!
- I walked 5k 2 years in a row for Strides for Melanoma
- Next week I will walk 5k for Breast Cancer for the second time.
My wonderful husband, and partner in crime, has been right there beside me the entire journey. He has had his own significant health issues. That is a whole other story! Together, we have overcome so many obstacles, and we have achieved so much together. He has been my Rock, my Hero, and my Inspiration.
I am so proud of ME. I am proud of HIM. And I am proud of US.
Thank you to the Melanoma Network of Canada for inspiring me to make a difference by not only in bringing awareness to Melanoma, but also in my own personal journey.
Story from Melanoma Hero, Kim Mangnall