I remember eight years ago focusing on the word ‘Hope’ while I was undergoing chemotherapy for my newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia. I was in my hospital bed, writing the word ‘hope’ in calligraphy and then decorating that sheet of paper. Hope was the only positive I had during those days. I was clinging to it and praying that one day I would experience better days. I’m there now: hope, faith in God and my amazing doctors made my dream come true.

I remember one of my doctors mentioning the value of having a positive and hopeful outlook. I know it takes a lot more than a hopeful outlook to beat cancer or survive a devastating experience. Sometimes when we are in the pit of despair, hope is the only light we have to guide us during that time.