Having been so young during my treatment, I never realized the seriousness of cancer. I have never understood the wide-mouth stares or gasps after having told someone about my past experience, and I have definitely never saw it as an urgent, life-threatening obstacle. I remember my cancer treatment as a few (happy and sad) months I got to live and travel through a hospital floors, halls, and suites. Nevertheless, there were difficult moments, tearful mornings, and low spirits, but they have all impacted me in a positive way.
Having had cancer, when I did, has affected my life in such a way that few other events can. When I was 5, I never thought about death, the outcomes, or survival during my medical obstacle, nor does any child. I did not focus on the negativities or the final result, and I have kept this same mind set throughout my life. I feel like I am able to think far more easily and confidently during difficult situations than other people. Whenever there is a test at school, I stay calm and relaxed. I do not see the purpose in panicking and excessively worrying about the score I will receive. And, because I can do this, I am able to concentrate and work effectively. And, that is why I know I will succeed in college. It is no hidden knowledge that there will be hardships and difficulties throughout college, or anywhere in life. But, because I have the experience of remaining collected, concentrated, and unfazed during difficult, life-changing
situations, I know I will be able to do the same in college. It is not the obstacle that defines me, but how I feel about it and the actions I choose to take.
Cancer has also taught me to enjoy the experience rather than the outcome. When I was sitting in my hospital room, I was not thinking about when this process would be over or about what I would do after I completed my treatment. Instead, I was enjoying the time I had with my mother and the moments I spent playing, joking, and living with friends. As for my career, my experience with cancer has made me want to pursue a profession in which I can travel, speak a foreign language, and experience other cultures. When I had cancer I was able to meet people from different parts of the country and from abroad, and I participated in cancer programs where I got to travel within my own state and to other states. I love being with new people and experiencing new places. I have met many types of people,
with different experiences, different languages, different dreams, and different occupations. My encounter with cancer has shown me that I want these types of experiences of to be a part of my career.
Cancer has definitely affected my life values and career goals. I live for entertainment and happiness, not for worry or anxiety. I enjoy taking the time to travel, meet people, and learn about their own experiences, lifestyle, and dreams. My experience with cancer has taught me that life is fascinating, so I should enjoy every moment I have with it.
-Asha Paul