Sometimes I think in book titles. The one that came to mind as I embarked on the most challenging chapter in my life: The Good Kind of a Bad Thing. The bad thing is breast cancer. The good thing is that it's a highly treatable kind. As many of you know, my mom showed breast cancer who's boss with inspiring courage and grace. She's as healthy and happy as ever today, which is why I can the charge into this battle with a strong sense of gratitude rather than fear.
When Sean and I told sweet Tyler (5) and Sylvia (8) that their mommy has cancer, their responses melted our hearts and eased our worries in ways that only the wisdom of children can do:
Tyler (through tears): "Can I tell you something? (long pause while wiping his eyes) I love you."
Sylvia (through a frown): "Does this mean mommy has BREAST cancer?" Yes, it's breast cancer. "Oh, good." Because what she knows about breast cancer is that it's something you beat.
That's right. So here goes ...