Thanks so much for visiting Silent Triumphs ®
Silent Triumphs® came to fruition in 2008 as I began to celebrate 5 years of being cancer free. It was that health anniversary that reminded me to reflect on those hurdles I had tackled, recognize the strides I had taken and celebrate the successes in my Life – no matter how small.
I had been given the Gift of Time!
In December 2002, I was diagnosed with Stage III Breast Cancer. My world was shattered, I was frightened and overwhelmed! Thankfully with the support of an amazing husband, children, family members, friends and an amazing medical support team; I realized I could face the difficult situations ahead. As I listened to the medical specialists discuss what steps were recommended; all I could focus on was the fact – This is happening to me?
After almost a year of surgeries, chemotherapy and radiation – I was released from the continuous medical regime. Instead of feeling relieved and happy, I was faced with depression; now realizing I’m now on my own; my medical team was sort of my backbone, my safe place! To make my uneasiness worse, I lost my father to Multiple Myeloma Cancer. Internally I was filled with grief, anxiety and fear on how to find the strength to continue taking that next step forward. It was at this time I recognized my first Silent Triumph. I realized – NONE of what was occurring defined me; I would find my true self and be confident to step forward and when the time is right, offer a positive environment and extend myself to be a sounding board and a voice for others.
Over time I have realized we all celebrate our achievements differently, there are those who can shout them from the mountaintop and those who close their eyes and whisper internally – I DID IT – I AM GRATEFUL!! So often we dwell on small failures or scarcely take the time to appreciate and reflect on our achievements, it is our past, present, and future challenges that mold our character. You are stronger than you know, even when it doesn’t feel that way.
Our Silent Triumphs’ unique Illuminate symbol used for our products has a figure reaching for a star and serves as a reminder to reflect on those achieved accomplishments, recognize the strides we have taken and celebrate the successes of life, no matter how small. Since the creation of Illuminate, I have experienced the loss of loved ones to Dementia, Epilepsy, Stage IV Brain Cancer, and Heart disease. My family has also experienced first-hand the battles one can face when struggling with Mental Illness and /or Substance Abuse.
Still, today I continue to learn how challenges can nudge a person to reach outside their own known ability and in the end – grow inward. Each of us has our own personal “story”.
We hope your Silent Triumphs: INSPIRE a quiet strength, IGNITE a passion or encourage you to IMAGINE your dreams.
ANNA
President, Patient/Survivor, Caregiver and Advocate
Inspire . Ignite . Imagine
Believe in yourself – all of us can experience our own “Silent Triumphs®”