unexpected

7/12/2023

Years ago when my nephew was just a little tyke, we went to the Calgary Zoo. The dinosaur area was a bit scary so we decided to get some bottled drinks and sit down for a break. As we settled in, my nephew shook up his pop, he opened it and it sprayed everywhere. He declared quite matter of factly - “that was unexpected”.
Hmmm...actually no it wasn't.

Last fall, I tripped on the stairs and hurt my glute muscle and leg. After having chiropractic treatment, acupuncture, physio, and even reiki, it wasn't getting better so I went to a walk-in clinic. At the time I did not have a family doctor (that’s a whole different issue) which is why I was trying the other treatments. An x-ray showed cancer lesions on my hip and pelvis. What?! That was unexpected.

After many tests and scans it was determined I have metastatic breast cancer. Some may call it stage 4 breast cancer but I don't. Stage 4 sounds like I have one foot in the grave and according to my vision board, I have a lot left to do before I'm ready to return “home”.

The past three years have been full of “the unexpected”. My mom was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and passed away a few months later in 2020. Covid hit and caused so many challenges for everyone - I did not expect to see people turn on each other. My dad struggled with grief over losing my mom and passed away from cancer complications last year. My sister and I unexpectedly have had to deal with our parents' estate in Victoria. And now, my cancer diagnosis and being in a wheelchair. It feels like God/Source/Creator/The Universe shook a pop bottle and handed it to me. Honestly, I'd like to let it settle before opening it but I don't believe that is why we are here. Life is full of challenges and the unexpected. If you haven't had many yet, that’s awesome but I suspect you will. It's what we signed up for.

We are here to grow, to be challenged, to go through hard times, and learn the lessons we need to. Sometimes we get sprayed when we weren't expecting it. We are also here to love, laugh, explore our passions, and support each other. It's the good times and the people that hand us the napkins when we dripping with sticky pop that makes the journey so enjoyable. I am truly blessed to have people in my life who are prepared to hand me the wet wipes when I need them - people who lift me up and cheer me on. And even though I want to yell - “that was unexpected”, just maybe it wasn’t and everything is always working out for me.

10 Comments

Gail

7/12/2023 06:28:13 pm

What a great attitude, what can I do to support you

Carla Flegel link

7/12/2023 06:34:26 pm

I think you are right. That was unexpected. These blindsides …the ones that you just never even in your mind wrestled with… when the hit you like the icy snowball from behind a bush… they are the worst. I think we think of scenarios and how you would solve them for the “usual things” at the usual times, but when they sneak up at you with a surprise, that’s when it really gets you. It’s a LOT… And no choice but to put 1 foot in front of the other and deal with what comes And move onto the next calamity … My thoughts, my visions, my asking of the divine for support …it will certainly be guided your way…. All I know after all the sessions with Debra is that energy cannot be destroyed. It’s turned into something else that is still here with us And always will be

Donna Bilodeau

7/12/2023 09:54:43 pm

Mellissa, I’m sending you tons of love and hopeful healing. We think of you so often. I’m not very good at doing things unless people ask so, if you do need anything, please reach out.

Barbara Walker link

7/12/2023 10:18:35 pm

Mellissa, you do not deserve this challenge. You have always been so concerned with those around you. But you have been handed this challenge and I love your attitude. Not everyone has that kind of courage. I enjoy your blogs and love that you enjoy writing them. Thinking of you and wishing you strength to deal with all the ups and downs.

Kathy Trepanier

7/13/2023 03:02:36 am

Barb says it well. I would like to follow your journey to the extent you want to share. Your words inspire me.

Karen Stromberg

7/13/2023 07:00:27 am

Mellissa, so sorry to hear of your diagnosis and it’s required journey. I think of you often when we travel as we are now. Meeting you and James made one of our first cruises so very memorable. Your courage and vision are a gift. Thank you for sharing❤️

Sandra

7/13/2023 07:31:09 am

Your words, like you, are beautiful, powerful, and an inspiration to remember what we often forget.
I too will add my energy of healing love to the collective you have built around you, and am here in any capacity I can offer to you 🙏🏻

Meeri Stewart

7/13/2023 07:53:40 am

Dear Mellissa, I think of you often. Your mom and dad too. I stop my doings to send you some SISU and hope it finds it way to you to help you along this “unexpected” journey.

Janet Riopel

7/13/2023 09:41:30 am

Mellissa, you have always been such a strong and passionate leader and it is not unexpected to me that you are so inspiring. I appreciate your willingness to share your journey and am sending you positivity and healing thoughts. I've always been your fan, but am now your cheerleader too. Hugs, Janet 💜

Deb Wooding

8/3/2023 08:44:26 pm

Dear Mellissa,
Your strength and courage inspire me. Your positive attitude and determination are a marvel. You have been there to support so many women throughout the years and now we are all here to send loving support to you in this challenging journey. It’s entirely not unexpected that a multitude of love and affection and prayers are coming your way from so many of us who admire and respect you💜 Hugs my dear friend, Deb xox

a different journey

unexpected

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