A Survivor's Thanksgiving: Celebrating Life's Blessings Post-Cancer

Tamron Little was diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma in 2007 as a 21-year-old new mother. Catch up on Tamron's blogs here!

Thanksgiving is a season for reflection, gratitude and coming together with those I cherish. It represents warmth through family gatherings, the delightful scent of roasted turkey and the joy of upholding treasured traditions. However, having faced the challenges of peritoneal mesothelioma, Thanksgiving holds an even deeper meaning for me — a celebration of survival and a recognition of life’s many blessings. Going through treatment changed my outlook on life. I have been on this cancer survivorship journey for 17 years and counting, and every Thanksgiving, I feel grateful not only for my health but also for the lessons I’ve learned during my struggles.

As I gather around the table this year, I want to take a moment to honor the journeys of cancer survivors who have navigated the hurdles of diagnosis, treatment and recovery. Not just my own story but my husband’s, my grandmother’s and now my mother-in-love. Our stories reflect the human spirit's struggle, resilience, hope and indomitable strength.

Thanksgiving brings up many memories for me from childhood and my adult life. About six years ago, my husband was diagnosed with cancer just two days shy of Thanksgiving. It was news that we didn’t think we would ever hear again since my diagnosis just 10 years earlier. Cancer is a difficult diagnosis that often brings fear and uncertainty, and that year it was magnified. Although I appreciated life before, I now find joy in simple pleasures, such as a beautiful sunset, meaningful conversations or just being with my family. Once taken for granted, these moments hold special significance in my heart.

Over the years, I’ve noticed that many survivors, including myself, choose to give back to our communities during Thanksgiving, honoring those who supported us in tough times. This year is no different. Volunteering at local shelters, participating in cancer awareness campaigns and helping others facing similar challenges create a sense of purpose within the survivorship community. Acts of kindness not only positively impact the lives of others, but they also play a significant role in my healing journey. I find purpose and fulfillment by reaching out and offering support, contributing to my emotional well-being and journey.

For me, the Thanksgiving table reminds me of the importance of connection. I understand how priceless the support from family and friends can be. Holidays offer me the chance to celebrate those relationships and acknowledge the loved ones who stood by me through thick and thin. The laughter shared over the meal, the stories exchanged, and the love felt in the room are unmatched, highlighting the power of community and support.

As I prepare for Thanksgiving, I carefully choose each ingredient. I want to make sure only the freshest and best reach the table. I look forward to my kids helping me in the kitchen and having my husband as a taste tester. I pour my heart into every step of the cooking process, from measuring the spices to chopping the vegetables, all while envisioning the warmth and joy this meal will bring to my family and friends. I want each dish to reflect a recipe and the love and gratitude I feel for those gathered around the table. It's not just a holiday, but an experience filled with warm and heartfelt memories.

This Thanksgiving, I want to honor the survivors among us. I celebrate their stories, courage and strong spirit. I will share my personal stories of resilience to inspire others. As I gather with loved ones, I am reminded that every moment is precious, and each breath is a gift.

In a world that can often feel overwhelming and heavy with burdens, I find solace in the practice of gratitude. This Thanksgiving, I aim to deeply appreciate life's glimmers of beautiful moments, from the vibrant colors of autumn leaves to the laughter that fills the room during our family gatherings. I will take the time to remember those I’ve lost, honoring their memories and their impact on my life while holding onto the lessons they taught me.

In this season of warmth and togetherness, I encourage you to truly value the precious time you have with each other, share stories, create memories and enjoy the simple pleasures of being together. Together, as a family, we can celebrate our successes and the challenges we’ve faced, recognizing the resilience and strength we gain from overcoming adversity. This Thanksgiving, I aspire to cultivate a more profound sense of gratitude that embraces both joy and reminds me of the richness of life.

Here’s to a Thanksgiving filled with love, hope and the joy of being alive.

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