Cancer Changed My 40th Plans, But Made My 41st Even Sweeter

I had big plans for turning 40 including an island vacation with friends, and a big birthday party. My friends and I had been planning the ultimate celebration for this milestone for years.

But three and a half months before my birthday, I was diagnosed with breast cancer and all plans were cancelled. 

I started chemo just two months before my 40th, while many of my friends were having their 40th celebrations. I was so depressed, I chose not to attend any of the parties.

My birthday arrived mid-way through chemo.

I was grateful for the small party my family threw me that weekend, but it felt like a shadow of the celebration I had dreamed of for so long. 

I didn’t feel like myself. I didn’t look like myself. And I couldn’t fully enjoy the moment the way I’d imagined.

Delayed Not Denied

By the time my 41st approached, I was grateful to be cancer-free and so my husband and I decided to celebrate this year as my “belated 40th birthday.” 

He made it extra special by planning a day of surprises and special moments for me that included a baseball game, music, and laughter with a group of people I love.

I realized that just because life doesn’t go as planned, it doesn’t mean you miss out on milestones.

You can find a new way to make them happen and still celebrate—on your own timeline, and in a way that feels right for you.

#whatworkedformeweds