On The Website
Connect on Social Media

A Humorous Look at the Bright Side of Cancer... and There Is One

Breast Cancer Awareness

January 9, 2013

Breast Cancer & Birthdays

I was diagnosed with Stage III breast cancer on April 4, 2009, at the age of 42. The way the doctors kept talking to me, I didn’t think I would make it to my next birthday: “Yes, Maria, your Nottingham Grade report came back at 8 out of 9; this is a tool that measures […]

Continue Reading »
October 9, 2012

Breast Cancer Awareness #4

It’s that time of year again when I make my list of reasons that I’m very aware of breast cancer: 1. When I’m cleaning my toilets, I think of how I used to have uncontrollable vomiting and would “get out of” housework. I’ll take cleaning over puking any time. 2. I still find myself tiptoeing […]

Continue Reading »
August 2, 2012

To-Do List #7

I can’t believe it’s August 2 already. Jonathan will be starting school in less than a month already. Me? Once again, my to-do list has to do with cancer: Think real hard about calling the plastic surgeon to discuss the possibility of adding a nipple to the new breast he created for me last June, […]

Continue Reading »
May 28, 2012

Goodbye To A Friend

This picture was taken February 15. I included it in my blog posting all about the mother’s ring that I had Mike & Wanda design for me. Mike has since passed away—a very sad day indeed.Every time that I look at this ring on my finger, of course I think of my kids. I think […]

Continue Reading »
April 3, 2012

Three Years & Counting

It’s been three years since my breast cancer diagnosis. Like I keep saying, I thought I’d be dead by now. Is it morbid to think that way? Or am I just being thankful for still being around? 4/3/2009: Diagnosis & road trip to Oceanside, California 4/3/2010: Road trip to Gleneden, Oregon 4/3/2011: Did absolutely nothing […]

Continue Reading »
January 27, 2012

Coaches Against Cancer

I never knew there was such a thing. Of course, coaches are against cancer. So are players. And mothers and fathers of players. What I mean is, I didn’t realize there was a fundraiser called “Coaches Against Cancer.” Adriana’s team picked me to sit on the bench and “assist coach” in two short days. I’m […]

Continue Reading »
October 26, 2011

Breast Cancer Awareness #3

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and every year, I make a list of ten reasons why I’m personally aware of breast cancer: 1. I rejoice every time I shave my legs. I am a normal person with hair. 2. I have a gazillion hats and scarves for when I was bald. 3. The […]

Continue Reading »
September 24, 2011

"Celebration of Life" Concert

One Sunday, I was having a little emotional breakdown at church because I hadn’t been able to get back to the piano. Guess God wanted me to start playing again… and pounce on other fine musicians I know: “Say, Oleg, could you play bass for me on the 24th? Bonnie, could you play violin? George? […]

Continue Reading »
April 3, 2011

Two Years, Still Counting

It’s been two years since the “advanced cancer” diagnosis. I thought I’d be dead by now. This picture was taken 2-3 hours after I received the news. I didn’t cry, but I sure look like I’ve been hit by a bus. The kids look happy, not because they’re uncaring, but because we were getting ready […]

Continue Reading »

Marie de Haan

Marie de Haan
Go to the Top of the Page