I recently finished reading John Green’s latest novel, “The Fault in Our Stars”.
I didn’t know anything about the story line only to see copies of it in all the book shops and department stores.
Sometimes, that lack of pre-conceived notion can be exactly what’s required before settling into an unknown book or movie. You’re not sucked in by the hype.
In the midst of madness and illness in our household a few weeks ago, I still somehow managed to escape for a day trip to Melbourne.
Immediately getting comfortable in my designated seat, I got straight stuck into my book. In the hour and a half of being up in the air, it felt like my emotions were too.
I was crying over one page and before hitting the next, I was laughing out loud. So damn lucky no one was sitting next to this one crazy, hysterical lady.
With the book’s main characters shrouded by terminal cancer, messages of true love and appreciation of life come through thick and bittersweet.
Most importantly, no matter how limited or insignificant our mortal presence is in this vast, great world, each one of us – whether we realize it or not – has a role to play.
We claim a spot in someone’s life: to leave a legacy. It may be left behind with one or many. It might be unintentional. It doesn’t matter.
The significant existence of one person lies in its personal impact on another.
While in Melbourne, I had the rare opportunity to listen to inspiring key-note speakers at the Kids Business Bloggers Brunch.
Patricia Insall is a bubbly mother and grandmother. After her own daughter was diagnosed with breast cancer, Patricia also found herself in the same unfortunate predicament.
Having volunteered at Look Good…Feel Better for the past 8 years, she shares tips and techniques with cancer patients.
Whether it’s on how to fit a wig, apply make up or style hair, Patricia helps them manage the appearance related sideeffects that can be caused by cancer treatment.
Her big beauty tip? “Always, always moisturize!!!”
Running workshops all around Australia, Look Good…Feel Better is a free community service program dedicated to helping cancer patients to manage the appearance related side effects from cancer treatment.
Having discovered that her 40 year old son has also been diagnosed with cancer, Patricia has extremely heavy, burdening personal battles ahead.
Yet, she spoke with such spark and passion on about her great love in helping others.
Whether she realizes it or not, I just know she’s going to leave behind something so very positive and special in many lives.
Without them realising it, who’s left an impact on your life?
***Kids Business Communications hosts the Bloggers BrunchTM series of events where bloggers and brands meet and mingle. These events also raise awareness and funds for different charities. For more information www.kidsbusiness.com.au***
What a strong woman, and a wonderful way to deal with it, by giving to others.
p.s. I always seem to get overemotional while reading or watching movies in the air as well – must be the lack of fresh air.
Becci Birdy Num Num recently posted..Walk Thoughts
What an amazing woman and I need to find that book on Audible, quick smart x
Cybele recently posted..My great aunt, the Charleston and a homemade toner
Oh god/ that infinity quote. It gets me. I loved this book, I smashed through it in 2 days.
On a lighter note I hope you enjoyed melbourne 🙂
http://www.dancingthroughsunday.typepad.com
A nice post, Grace, that looks beyond the obvious. Speaking as one whose husband died from cancer, I applaud Patricia, who has managed to turn her adversity into a strength to help others. Special indeed.
Lee-Anne recently posted..SERIOUS and other important trivia…
I’ve heard so much good things about this book but never had the chance to read it. Love the quotes, BTW.
Happy Wednesday, Grace!
My goodness what an amazing woman she is. Flying is always emotional because often we are alone, tired and all that thin air and (wine) Lovely recap, glad you got a wee break away x
Emily @ Have A Laugh On Me recently posted..What my phone would say if it could talk!
Sounds like a great brunch… and I’m definitely with her on the moisturising tip!!! Sounds like a great read – thanks for the tip! xx
Lucy @ Bake Play Smile recently posted..There’s Always Room For Cake… and Cupcakes!
What a great brunch idea. I’ll keep a look out for the next one. Thanks for sharing.
Bec @ Seeing the Lighter Side of Parenting recently posted..Mummy bloggers are making history. Be nice.
I must read that book. I heard so much about it. It seems that it has a great message.
Rita @ The Crafty Expat recently posted..Happy second blog anniversary to The Crafty Expat!
So true – and we’re fortunate to have these strong people among us. You included. I am forever grateful for the friends blogging has brought me and the strength that those friendships provide is utterly priceless!
Nami recently posted..The Cramp About Summer Camp
I have to read that book!
I was intending on going to Bloggers Brunch but things went haywire on the day and I never made it in the end. Enjoyed being there via Instagram though!
Jody at Six Little Hearts recently posted..Introducing Luna Blu Bags – The ‘Megan’ in Windsor Bag Review and Giveaway
What an awesomely inspiring woman!
Lisa@RandomActsOfZen recently posted..One Silly Day
Well Grace you’ve sold me on the book. I’ve been looking for something to read. What an inspiring woman and how sad her life has been such a challenge. Who has made an impact on me? So many people I’ve met in my life have taught me humility, tolerance and empathy it’s impossible to say. I might add I still have a lot to learn. Awesome post!
Pinky Poinker recently posted..THINGS MY SISTER PINKY TAUGHT ME.
I’m SO glad you read TFIOS! How good is it?!?!?!
And yes, Patricia had me laughing and almost crying as well. All three speakers that day took me on a journey (I want to groan at that cliché, but it’s true). SO GOOD.
Emily recently posted..I wish I was a big fat cat – my Budget response
Ooh, and forgive the blatant blog flogging (well, it is Friday!), but my favourite TFIOS quotes are here if you’re interested: https://emhawker.blogspot.com.au/2013/10/book-review-shining-girls-and-fault-in.html
Emily recently posted..I wish I was a big fat cat – my Budget response
Such strength so much to learn form amazing people like her. Such a really nice idea the look good feel better campaign.
SarahD @SnippetsandSpirits recently posted..Post Natal Depression the Middle
My teenage daughter has read the book and has been hanging out to see the movie. She will be going this evening with a friend. I want to read the book myself now!
And what an inspiring woman you have written about. It really is food for thought.
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