All or Nothing Attitude

Ever since my mom's cancer diagnosis last year, I've revised my attitude on so many things. I've re-evaluated much of my life and decided to focus on what means the most to me. I've completely revamped my reaction to unfortunate situations, ones that used to send me into dramatic meltdown mode - Oh, I popped a tire. It's not the end of the world. I didn't get the job? Bummer, but it's okay. I know it sounds cliche, but ultimately, I realized that nothing is promised and the best I can do is embrace every day, every conversation, every dance, every meal, every hug like it might be my last.

Recently, I read the story of a remarkable woman, Heather Von St. James, who was diagnosed with mesothelioma, a rare, aggressive cancer caused by exposure to asbestos, at the age of 36, just three months after giving birth to her daughter. Despite the grim reality of the disease and the fact that most patients don't live 15 months beyond diagnosis, Heather forged ahead with the support of her doctors and husband, Cameron. After intense treatment, which included the removal of her left lung, Heather made a complete recovery from her dire diagnosis. Nine years later, she works to spread hope to patients and raise awareness about mesothelioma and asbestos exposure.

Via

I knew very little about mesothelioma before hearing Heather's story, but it's important to be aware of the symptoms of the disease and the dangers of asbestos, which was used in building materials through the 1970s and still is not banned in the US or Canada. In Heather's case, she was exposed to the fibers by wearing her dad's construction work jacket as a child. The cancer, which affects the lining of organs (particularly the lungs), wasn't diagnosed until she had serious trouble breathing.

Now, Heather uses her difficult story to inspire hope in other patients. As a result of her struggle, she has adopted a 'live in the moment' attitude, an 'All or Nothing' mentality that allows her to throw caution to the wind and live loudly. In honor of National All or Nothing Day on July 26, I wanted to share her story to encourage you to truly embrace your life and live with no regrets.

It's amazing how bad news can actually inspire you to become a better version of yourself, to live more authentically, and to face and share your emotions. More than anything else, my mom's cancer diagnosis has opened my eyes to the incredible life I have and makes me want to fill it with as many amazing people and memories as I can.

Everyone has something they've always wanted to do, but haven't yet out of fear or hesitation. It's not always a daring endeavor, like skydiving or jumping off the high dive. Sometimes, it's simply gathering the courage to share your feelings about something, making an overdue doctor's appointment, or telling someone how much they mean to you. Whatever it is that you've been meaning to do or accomplish, I encourage you to do it this Sunday on National All or Nothing Day.

You only have one life. Make it count.