An Open Letter to Our Skin Cancer Community: Why I Admire You

Dear Friends,
I admire you.

I admire you

I started working with our skin cancer community about five years ago and I have seen the evolution of our forums, discussions, and life-changing stories. I have read about your journeys, your struggles, you heartbreaks and heartaches. I have celebrated your victories and shed a tear or two along the way, as well. I have shared my own struggles from the deepest and, sometimes, darkest places. I did this because I admire you.

Here is what I admire:

You are dignified

I admire the way that you handle your challenges with class and respect. It would be easy to lash out in frustration over disappointments and loss, but I don’t see this from you.

You are courageous

I admire your fortitude and the way that you face challenges head on. This stuff can be scary but I don’t see you being ruled by fear and the unknown. I see strength in the face of adversity.

You are vigilant

I admire the way that you push for correct diagnoses and proper treatment. I don’t see you settling for less when better is on the table.

You are diligent

I admire the way that you self-check and make regular appointments. Skin cancer is a formidable opponent, but I appreciate the way you handle the details in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.

You are kind

I admire the way that you care for others in our community. I see your sweet words and well wishes. I am warmed by your generous spirit.

You are sensitive

I admire the way that you meet people “where they are.” Everyone has a different understanding of this terrible disease and you craft your words so that the message is not lost. You understand that some people need a soft word, some need a strong push, and some just need a listening ear.

You are fun

I admire the way that you continue to lead your lives in spite of challenges and for some, hardships. Skin cancer threatens to rob us of the “good times” but you find a way to celebrate them.

You are loving

I admire the self-sacrificial love that I see in this community. You give to others without expecting return. What skin cancer takes away, you make up by giving back. It’s a beautiful thing.

You are beautiful

I admire your inner and outer beauty. When I see your scars and stitches, all I see is what is lovely about you. The world may have its definition but you all have redefined it for me.

Honestly, you all have touched me

As a writing contributor and website and social media moderator for skincancer.net, I try to be empathetic and sympathetic without getting too entangled emotionally. I have felt that it’s best for me to distance myself from those emotions that could cloud my judgement in some way. The reality is that it’s impossible to not feel a lot. I cry and laugh with you, but most of all, I admire you.

What would you like to say to our community? Leave some thoughts in the comments!