Being diagnosed with an illness connected to death – like cancer – can be life shattering. Or, it can be a reason to reflect on life, and for many, that in itself is healing.
That's what Darlene Harris did. She’s a certified massage therapist at Peace of Body, Peace of Mind in the city of Richmond. The name of her business reflects a lot of what she has now come to, after living many years of what she calls misery – from a disturbed childhood, to a failed marriage, to being diagnosed with leukemia at age 45.
I met Darlene at "Team in Training", an organization that trains marathon runners and walkers while raising money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Darlene and I are what they call "honorees" – people who have had a bout with a blood cancer, who now go out to where they train to inspire them and cheer them on, as a live example of what the money they raise can do.
At a recent training, Darlene and I set up a water stop, and while we waited for runners and walkers to come by, thirsty for a drink – or some encouragement – Darlene shared inspiring her story with me. Here it is.
Broadcast on Crosscurrents, KALW News. Listen here.
