When cancer strikes, be assured light is coming

When life challenges you, do you know where you stand with God?

Do not wait for the difficult times in life to determine this. Get to know your God in the good times and in the not so good times, and he will never forsake you.

In Genesis, in the beginning, we started with darkness: “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters. And God said, Let there be light: and there was light. And God saw the light, and it was good; and God divided the light from the darkness” (Genesis 1:1-4).

No matter how dark life may seem, always hold on because Scripture tells us, “The light is coming.”

Children are naturally good and hopeful. Therefore, they look to us to be an example of light during the dark times.

This past year, I was diagnosed with cancer. The very mention of the word “cancer” automatically dims everything. I am a testament to the belief: “Hold on, the light is coming.”

Reflecting on what I have learned through this journey may help others, so let me share.

Cancer not only affects the one who is diagnosed but also affects everyone in the person’s life. Everyone has a choice to play a role in this journey. The idea of choice is important because some will choose not to partake, and that is OK.

There is so much spiritual clarity that comes with a cancer diagnosis. You really see Jesus in others. Even children have a role, even though they may need help in figuring out what that role is. It may be as simple as staying on top of school or may require more effort if they are able. This journey is important for children’s spiritual growth, to see how they handle the darkness in their life and the gratitude that comes with the light.

Sharing with others about your feelings is important for survival. Always be honest how you are feeling and expect others to be honest with how they can help. Think about who is in your life – who are your communicators and who are your supporters and in which way?

Some friends are there spiritually, such as in prayer; some are there physically, such as to cook, clean and help with the children; and some are there to just brighten your day.

Your roles and responsibilities in life will change with your family/friends, work life and life in general. The expenditure of energy gets prioritized. It is hard to change, adapt and be flexible. And, even though goals and priorities evolve, God will be the only constant.

Most important through this journey is to hold onto “the light is coming” – which is having faith in God.

Guess what? Even in the darkest of times, I have seen the light shine throughout.

Whether you have cancer or another challenge, all you can do is take one day at a time. Now, the focus is on quality of time. Prayers, love and support have carried me this far. Therefore, when I speak of cancer, I speak of the light and the blessings that come with it.

“Lord, hear our prayers and remind all of us, so we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal (2 Corinthians 4:16-18).

Kristy Solis grew up in Meraux, where she still resides with her family. Professionally, she has practiced as a registered nurse, and a family nurse practitioner. Currently, she serves full-time as a nursing faculty member with the University of Holy Cross. Personally, Kristy’s husband serves the country in the United States Army. She has two young daughters and one young-at-heart papa. Her family is blessed to be part of Our Lady of Prompt Succor Catholic Church family in St. Bernard. Kristy’s favorite things: to pray with her family and experience new adventures with them.