More from Millie Thomas-Kearney

I wrote “Hope From Cut Flowers” in August 2023 while undergoing chemotherapy for stage one ovarian cancer. I completed six rounds of chemo, experiencing side effects of physical weakness, terrible brain fog, and loss of hair. The treatment worked.

I’m happy to say that as of today, I remain cancer-free. My physical health is good (I exercise up to five hours every week), my brain is working properly again, and my hair has grown back (at first kinky curly, but after a couple of haircuts it’s back to its former wavy texture).

Although it’s been two years since getting my diagnosis, it seems like a lot more time has passed. I believe that’s because I’ve chosen to move forward and not obsess about my health. Of course, blood work and doctor’s appointments bring my cancer experience to mind every few months—and there’s no guarantee it won’t return—but I try to keep my mind focused on the activities of the present day.

I continue to enjoy my retirement. Earlier this year I purchased a sewing machine so I can sew the “toppers” I design for my church’s quilting group. The church donates the quilts to Lutheran World Relief who distributes them worldwide. I made four baby quilts by myself for the local crisis pregnancy center. I’ve also been fortunate to take more road trips with my husband, mainly through the southwest United States.

I wouldn’t wish cancer on anyone—it is a very scary and humbling experience—but in hindsight many positive things came out of it for me. I experienced God’s presence in so many miraculous ways (besides the unusual blossoms that grew on the cut flowers in my devotion). I was loved on by family and church friends who prayed for my healing and encouraged me with meals, notes, flowers, and visits to keep my spirits up. I was treated kindly by the doctors and nurses with whom I interacted. Probably my biggest take away from cancer was the strong reminder that my days are numbered and I need to use my time wisely (see Ps. 39:4).