THAT WAS THEN…
(June 2017): Chemo, radiation, chemo, radiation–my friend has battled the ravaging effects of cancer for the better part of a year, now. She’s managed to stave off the inevitable hair loss, but given her increasingly aggressive treatments, it came as no surprise to either of us that molting season had finally arrived–for my friend and her pinniped pal, Freckles.
“No way am I going to wear a wig,” she said.
“Of course not.”
She’s a bare-faced beauty, 100% natural. Synthetic hair? Don’t be silly.
“I’ll still be me,” she said. “If someone doesn’t want to see my bald head, not a problem. They don’t have to look at me!”
“Yep,” I said. “But hey! You could decorate your scalp with temporary tattoos…”
Red Sox logos, we agreed, would be just the ticket.
AND THIS IS NOW…
Freckles is back to his sleek, handsome self.
And my friend is sporting a new look.
The face of a champion, nearing the one-year anniversary of her first cancer treatment.
A lifelong Red Sox fan. A warrior woman, with unflinching courage. A winner.
Extra innings? No problem! Surprise plays? Easily handled. Grit, determination and a healthy dose of humor…these are her superpowers, and my friend’s using everything in that arsenal to beat back cancer.
Tattoo images via her hairstylist, Karen
Want to place your bets on the winning team? Lay odds on her.
No question in my mind: She’s got this.
Thanks to you, Melodye has been posting pictures of the seals and I love them. Your tattoos look wonderful! Continue to fight just as you’re doing – my thoughts and prayers are with you.
I love your tattoos! They’re beautiful and bold and strong, just like the woman who proudly wears them. Sending you healing energy and virtual hugs in vast amounts! We’re keeping you in our thoughts.
The Red Sox motto used to be “We Believe “. We believe in you!
Beat that cancer back with those Boston Red Sox’s bats! I pray that your friend will be blessed with many more years to fight, and that Jesus will give her peace and bear her up on eagles wings!
Keep on fighting and stay strong. You have put a lot of friends in your corner. Keep your chin up and those Red Soxs going. This is from a Yankee and Texas Ranger fan.
My prayers that you WILL WIN the battle!! May God be with you through it all.
Beauty abounds in the love and determination both of your beautiful hearts shine brightly!
Wonderful to see your friend looking healthy and strong.
Heaps of Love and Kindness to find you both and keep you well. xx ♥♥
You are so brave and a true warrior to fight this dreadful disease. Peace and Love to you!
You’ve got this! And you’ve got a fabulous friend in Melodye, a super inspiration in Freckles, and a strong cheering section in us!
Beauty in courage. 🙂
Wishes for continued strength, supported by friendship, nature, and grit!
We share a love of Freckles. So glad Melodye has shared your striking tattos and connected us so you can feel the strength in numbers.
Kicking butt and taking names, I see. Love the idea of the tattoos. Touching and agreeing for health and strength. Man I love this community.
Go Sox and go YOU! Rooting for you both (another Red Sox fan)
Cindy
Great tattoos, great attitude! You’re a true winner!
So did you see or hear about the triple play two nights ago? Did your fervent support have something to do with it? Here’s to your will and stamina!
There is so much beauty in this – so much spirit! You are a beautiful woman, and resilience and a bit of fantastic sassiness resides in your eyes and in the bravery of your new locks. You’ve reminded me that today is what we make of it. I’ll choose now to go forth living with intention as you’re clearly doing here. Though we don’t know each other…love to you. You’re in my thoughts.
Sending big hugs and blessings for your courageous journey! You inspire us all to follow our dreams and believe in the power of Nature to heal. ?
The face of a champion for sure! 🙂
With Love,
Mandy