Posted by Kathleen Pooler/@kathypooler
A few weeks ago, I received an email from Cameron Von St. James regarding a campaign to spread his wife Heather’s story about surviving Mesothelioma-– an often fatal consequence of asbestos exposure. The nurse in me wants to share her story here and the writer in me wants to spread the power of hope through her story.
It is my pleasure to present this introduction and interview by the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance with Heather Von St. James.
“The Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance’s (MCA) very own Heather Von St. James is spearheading an awareness effort on behalf of mesothelioma victims by sharing her personal holiday, LungLeavin’ Day, the anniversary of her surgery on February 2.
LungLeavin’ Day started out as a personal celebration in the beginning of February between Heather and her husband Cameron to recognize each year Heather remained cancer-free, but has now turned into a celebration of life and overcoming fears with many family members, friends and cancer survivors.
LungLeavin’ Day is not just for cancer survivors though, it is a day for anyone who desires to take control of their lives and throw their fears to the fire. Read our interview with Heather below, check out her new page and share with your loved ones!”
Thank you Heather and Cameron for sharing your cancer survival story. And congratulations, Heather for overcoming this devastating disease and spreading your hope to others.
I love the idea of smashing our fears like throwing a plate so it breaks into smithereens and loses any functionality and power over us in our lives!
I hope you’ll all go visit the Mesothelioma blog and enjoy this interview. Any thoughts?
I’d love to hear from you. Please leave your comments below~
Like Kathy, I like the image of the plate of fear being smashed by the power of hope. Thank you for posting this Kathy and Heather. I have a cancer survivor friend to whom I will definitely send a link to this website.
Thanks, Marian. I’m happy you will be sharing LungLeavinDay with your friend. The power of hope carried me through my own battle with cancer and I hope your friend will find strength and hope through Heather’s inspirational story..(and smash fears, too!) Thanks for your support.
What a wonderful image to hold of smashing the frustration and fear that overwhelms us when faced with cancer or any other chronic illness that steals our energy, weakens our resistance and dashes our hopes. Thanks Heather for sharing your story and inspiring others.
I agree,Pat. It’s nice to have options when we face conditions we have no control of. Thanks for stopping by.
Heather’s story of celebrating life in the face of adversity, is an inspiring example of how enduring and powerful hope can be.
My late sister remained very hopeful during the three years she fought Cancer. She would have loved Heather’s story of hope.
A quote from Elisabeth Kübler-Ross on conquering adversity: “The most beautiful people I’ve known are those who have known trials, have known struggles, have known loss, and have found their way out of the depths.”
It is through faith and hope that we can face any adversity.
Beautiful, Ted. It amazes me how powerful sharing hope can be. I love the Elizabeth Kubler-Ross quote. Yes, I agree, “it is through faith and hope that we can face any adversity.” I’m sure Heather would agree, too. Thanks so much for stopping by and sharing your thoughts.