Do you truly live your life to its fullest? This is much more than completing a bucket list. I am talking about taking care of your body and not taking it for granted. We are only given one chance in this lifetime, so why would you not treat each day with care? These thoughts are brought on by the passing of my uncle last week. He was diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer about three years ago. I remember the day when I found out. My mom called me as I was walking to catch the bus. I stopped in my tracks, refusing to believe it and did not understand why. You hear about people being affected by cancer all the time. But, until it affects you personally, you really do not put too much thought into it.
Uncle Andy (Photo by Essence Photo & Video)
I only knew one other person that passed away from lung cancer. From what I learned, lung cancer is hard to detect. It is usually detected after the cancer has already spread to the liver, the adrenal glands, the bones or the brain. It seems that cancer does not discriminate, as this person was even younger than my uncle. After my uncle passed, I found out that Jessica Marie Hehn, owner of CHEW Chicago, a Chicago-based health and wellness company, was diagnosed with stage IV non small cell lung cancer. Hearing about Jessica really scared me, to tell you the truth. Like myself, Jessica also teaches people how to lead a healthy lifestyle. This shows you that life is truly uncertain.
My uncle lived in Macau, China, which does not have the same resources for cancer treatment we have here in the States or Europe. I also think the approach of using food as medicine is not regarded as a form of cancer treatment. Being so far away, I felt helpless, wishing I could do more. Now that he is gone, all I have are memories of when he took care of me as a child and when I saw him last – at my wedding almost six years ago. What I will take away is his ability to take risks, bravery, and willingness to take care of his family – no matter what the circumstance.
In his memory, I want you to reflect on how you want to live your life. Your body is the best investment you will ever make, so make your choices wisely. It is never too late to make a change to your lifestyle, so do not put off another day. You may not know what the next day will bring.
Ready to get fit? Learn more about SKo-Fit or call Suzanne Ko for an appointment at (773) 415-3881. Follow Suzanne Ko on twitter and friend her on facebook.
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