“You have cancer!” 

It was a devastating diagnosis which I received over four years ago.  A diagnosis that left me reeling, and questioning everything. The biggest question of all: Why me? 

Answering this question forced me to take the time to think about all aspects of my life, including how I neglected my health for so long. I realized that I put everyone else’s needs in front of my own.  I filled my days at work helping others and taking care of my family while ignoring my own needs, until I was forced to face this diagnosis and reflect on my life. Taking time to prioritize myself and accepting help was very difficult. At one point in my journey I came across a statement that said “to heal, you must take care of yourself and this requires self love”.  This took some serious work and reflection, for if you truly love yourself, you take care of your body, accept help, and do things that make you happy. This was the most powerful healing advice I have received! This helped me to change my perspective on all aspects of my life. I began to feel more empathy and kindness towards others. I recognized the depth of my love for my husband and two daughters and how much they mean to me.  I leaned into my faith and deepened my relationship with the Lord, feeling immense gratitude for the blessings in my life. I experienced true happiness in an entirely new way. How can you be happy when you have cancer? Is this truly my blessing? I believe it is! I see others for the worth that they have, I love deeper and have faith that overcomes my fear. Someone once said “hurt people hurt people”. Wow! What an insightful statement. When I look at our society, I see people who are hurt, filled with anger, hatred and ready for a fight. I believe if everyone could love themselves, it would heal their hearts, and our world would be a better place. So I challenge you to truly love yourself.  It is a blessing! 

Sandy McCormack

Special Education Teacher 

Willink Middle School (retired Spring 2019)

As of this posting, Andy (Sandy's husband) has shared in Caring Bridge (click here) that Sandy has been having a particularly difficult time through this devastating pandemic. I wanted to let her, Andy and the girls know that I'm thinking of them, praying for them and sending them positive thoughts and love. 

Update (7/17/20):  Andy shared last night that Sandy has returned to her final home with Jesus. A light has gone out that will never be turned on again. Sandy's inspirational humor and spirit through her darkest time has spread to so many that knew her. I am forever grateful to her for opening up her heart to me and to her family I wish peace and strength, love and prayers.

If you're part of Sandy's community of family and friends (and even if you're not), feel free to leave Andy and the girls a comment and/or words of support and love. <3

I've known Marie for several years through my work as a substitute teacher and most recently as a teaching assistant at Webster Thomas.  I was excited about the prospect of getting to know her better when she contacted me about participating in the project.  We sat down to talk about her life, her teaching career and her family. I came to the conclusion that Marie has had a good, but rough life.  So much of what she shared with me had to do with loss, but through it all, I got a clear sense that she is a very strong woman.  The difficult times has taught her that life is what you make it and you might as well make it the best that you can because you just don't know what's around the corner.  There are no guarantees.  I wanted her portrait to show her in that light, not a glamorous one, but a real "this is me" portrait of inner strength and fortitude. We met at a park while walking her dog.  The light was great and I think we got it right!

In her words:

Everything you do is based on the choices you make.  It’s not your parents, your past relationships, your job, the economy, the weather, an argument, or your age that is to blame.  

You and only you are responsible for every decision and choice you make. Period.

                                                                                                                                    Quote by Brenda Slavin

Marie Prizzi

Math Teacher

Webster Thomas High School