Why Expressing Gratitude Can Be Its Own Kind of Healing

Thanksgiving is tomorrow, and it always reminds me that gratitude isn’t just a feeling—it’s something we can give.

After 14 months of active treatment, I wanted the people who carried me through it to know how much it meant to me.

So I sent handwritten notes to both sets of parents, our siblings, and their spouses; the people that showed up for me again and again. 

Through chemo, through my double mastectomy, and through the unknown along the way, their support helped me stay positive and thrive.

I thought about the specific moments and included them in personalized thank-you notes so they’d know exactly how grateful I was.

The letters were honest and heartfelt, and writing them made my gratitude grow even more.

This Thanksgiving, if you’re grateful for someone, tell them. It’s one of the most meaningful gifts you can give.

#whatworkedformeweds