The words in this article’s headline spoken to me on December 3 by my surgeon at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, were both unexpected and stunning. It had been five years since a malignant tumor was discovered on the left side of my neck and my journey with cancer had begun. I was aware that, statistically, the five-year mark was significant if one were to survive cancer.
However, in the cancer world, “cure” is a monumental word. It is much bigger than “remission” and even towers above “cancer free.” I looked at this man who I believe saved my life and asked, “Cured?”
“Yes, cured,” he repeated.
A tsunami of emotion came over me. Gratitude tumbled around with the implications of this amazing news.
Every six months, I had been visiting my surgeon and oncologist. PET scans and extensive examination of my ears, nose, and throat were always accompanied by the words, “You’re doing good.” Each time, I heaved a sigh of relief as I marched back out into the fray of life. But at the back of my mind loitered the thought: Next time, something may be found.
I already am convinced that this concern restrained me. Now, many who know me might argue against this conclusion as I have continued to be highly engaged in life. However, my willingness to take risks certainly has been contained and I have found myself playing safe more than is my normal modus operandi.
But now what will be my excuse or reason for holding back? This was the thought with which I was preoccupied as I drove back from the Mayo with my partner, Cheryl. When so many do not survive cancer, why me? A philosophical answer to that question is what appears to be true for all of us: If we’re alive, our mission on Earth isn’t finished.
However, I am 69, so how big a vision is possible for a person of my age? It was to be just a few minutes before I found out. In my book, “Even Eagles Need a Push,” I wrote about the phenomenon of synchronicity—a meaningful coincidence. It is an unexpected and surprising connection to a life event one is dealing with. Synchronicity often provides encouragement, inspiration, and insight when most needed.
So let me describe the scene. To keep to the speed limit, my car was on cruise control. As I focused on the road ahead, the “why me” questions swirled around in my head.
At one point, for some unaccountable reason, I looked up. There, about 40 feet above the car, hovered a magnificent eagle. The few seconds the eagle was in my vision felt like minutes. I could see every facet of it so clearly—the proud head and glorious wings. I had never been as close to this symbol for which my life, my work, and my brand have so long been associated.
“Look at me, David,” the eagle seemed to be saying, “we have meant a lot to each other. Our partnership has made a difference in the lives of thousands of people. We have opened them to possibilities they never could have imagined. Let us use this gift of new life and re-commit ourselves to the purpose for which we were created. Let us soar to new heights of contribution and achievement.”
And so it will be!
Note: For a complimentary copy of David McNally’s booklet, “My Sacred Journey Through Cancer,” e-mail info@transformcorp.com
David McNally, CPAE, is the CEO (Chief Encouragement Officer) of TransForm Corporation (http://www.transformcorp.com). Elected to the Speakers Hall of Fame by the National Speakers Association (NSA), McNally is the author of the bestselling books, “Even Eagles Need a Push—Learning to Soar in a Changing World,” “The Eagle’s Secret—Success Strategies for Thriving at Work and in Life,” and “The Push—Unleashing the Power of Encouragement.” His co-authored book, “Be Your OWN Brand,” is used by many business schools to address the importance of building a strong personal brand. McNally’s books have been translated into 12 different languages and developed into corporate training programs that have been released in more than 20 countries. TransForm works with organizations to develop purposeful leaders who build inspired organizations and iconic brands. Clients include Ameriprise, Areva, Conway, Delta Airlines, Pulte Homes, and Thrivent. For more information, visit www.davidmcnally.com or e-mail info@transformcorp.com.
