Humor for the Tumor | October Challenge

By
Real Estate Broker/Owner with KD Realty - 408.972.1822 CA DRE#01366594

The October Challenge is about sharing stories on what changes we have made in our personal and/or business life from July 1st, 2020 to the present.
We are asked to share what worked and what has not worked as we had expected.

 

Story #3 – Humor for the Tumor

 

Laughter is such great medicine. Finding things to laugh about seems to get easier as we move into the month of October 2020.

2020 in so many ways has been one 💩 show after another. While many things are not funny, or things we would not laugh at or about, it has become exponentially more important for me, both personally and professionally, to find something that makes me laugh!

 

Sometimes it is me that I am laughing at!

 

October is a special month for me. It is not only the month of my birth; it is breast cancer awareness month, and it is the month I get to celebrate a second birthday.

8 years ago, on October 11, 2012, following 4 months of chemotherapy, and endless medical appointments, I had breast and lymph node surgery. I have shared my story about the journey here before and every year thereafter.  I will continue to share my story of hope, faith, and gratitude for my life. Too many others do not get to tell their story. 

 

 

Speaking of laughing at myself. To this day, I laugh my butt off at the fact that I painted on my eyebrows on surgery day.  We don't just lose the hair on our head with chemo!  I can only hope the doctors and nurses in the surgery room had fun with that as well! Really?  Now that is FUNNY! 

 

The cancer diagnosis was a gift that allowed me to transform my life. If we want to talk about digging deep, baby that was DEEP.

The lessons of that experience reside within me, live all around me, and work through me every day of my life, which includes my real estate business.

 


 

Consulting with people is a big part of my business day. Listening to people creates a connection. It amazes me how many people I consult with share that they had cancer. After listening to them tell their story I congratulate them on their “win” and then share that I too won against the Big C.

 

I also consult with people who become clients because cancer took their loved one’s life. It is always sad for me to hear this. Always. My eyes well up typing the words.

It is always sad for me.

It. Just. Is.

 

Yet, it reminds me my work is not done here. No matter how spooky life challenges get, we get to choose how we respond to them.

While cancer and death are nothing to laugh about, when life’s challenges knock me down, I intentionally find something to make me laugh. 

 

Humor worked with cancer treatment over 8 years ago. It works today to help overcome the various 💩 shows that life chooses to throw my way.  

 

Let Humor, Kindness, and Love Lead the Way!

Life is Short. Live it Fully! 


October Challenge - To Think is To Create Hosted by Anna and Carol, a sequel to the June Challenge Rising above the Pandemic.

 

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Blog | About Me

Probate Real Estate Services
San Jose Real Estate Website

    

DRE#01366594

I specialize in probate real estate.
As a Certified Probate
Real Estate Specialist
my focus is on helping Executors and Administrators
avoid headaches
before they start.

“From the moment we met Kathleen, we were impressed with her professionalism, knowledge, patience, respect, humor, attention to detail, and compassion.  She's the Whole Package ~ excellent agent and wonderful human being!  In a potentially stressful experience, we have felt in good hands all along.  We are so grateful and recommend her without hesitation!”

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Comments (27)

Myrl Jeffcoat
Sacramento, CA
Greater Sacramento Realtor - Retired

I am convinced that laughter and humor are among the most powerful healers on earth.  You have reason to celebrate this day, Kathleen!

Oct 11, 2020 03:32 PM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Estate Specialist

I am right there with you on that belief Myrl Jeffcoat -  there are some scientific studies that are now proving this.  

Oct 11, 2020 04:07 PM
Myrl Jeffcoat
Sacramento, CA
Greater Sacramento Realtor - Retired

CONGRATULATIONS Kathleen, on having this blog FEATURED in the Old Farts Club group!  

Oct 11, 2020 03:32 PM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Estate Specialist

Awe, that you for the feature in the Old Farts Club!  It is an honor and truly fitting for my celebration! 

Oct 11, 2020 04:08 PM
Debra Leisek
Bay Realty,Inc Homer Alaska - Homer, AK

I admire your strength so much.  Yes laughter is good for the soul and when you mix it with the strength and bravery you hold inside it makes for one tough lady with a beautiful smile!  Celebrate Every Day!!

Oct 11, 2020 04:49 PM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Estate Specialist

Debra Leisek - you are so sweet.  Thank you! 

Oct 11, 2020 07:03 PM
Kathy Streib
Cypress, TX
Home Stager/Redesign

Hi Kathleen- I can remember the first time I read of your story and you have been an inspiration for me when I'm looking for someone with a Kick A__ attitude. For me, I love to laugh and try to find something to laugh about every day. Keep inspiring us. 

Oct 11, 2020 04:57 PM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Estate Specialist

Hello Kathy Streib - I remember my "coming out with cancer" post. I was absent from AR for some time and wanted to wait until it was behind me.  Kerrie knew.  She was so supportive. 


If I have not laughed by the end of my day I am definitely finding something to make me laugh before I slumber for the evening. 

Oct 11, 2020 07:07 PM
Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400
HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400 - Pikesville, MD
Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome

Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist You are a triumphant survivor. Thanks for sharing your story with us and how you are helping your clients. 

Oct 11, 2020 05:21 PM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Estate Specialist

Thank you, Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400 - cancer is more relatable than I ever imagined.  We all know someone that has/had it. 

Oct 11, 2020 07:09 PM
marti garaughty
garaughty.com - Montreal, QC
a highly caffeinated creative type...

 

 

Oct 11, 2020 06:38 PM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Estate Specialist

Thank you for the Feature, marti garaughty 

Oct 11, 2020 07:09 PM
marti garaughty

Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist ... Kathleen, I thank you for the inspiration !

Oct 12, 2020 09:18 AM
Dr. Paula McDonald
Beam & Branch Realty - Granbury, TX
Granbury, TX 936-203-0279

So very happy for you as you have traveled a tough journey. However, you have done it with a warrior strength and a great attitude.

Oct 11, 2020 09:24 PM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Estate Specialist

Hello Paula McDonald, Ph.D. - you know what that looks like because YOU are a warrior with strength and a great attitude.
💙💛

Oct 12, 2020 07:12 AM
Patricia Feager, MBA, CRS, GRI,MRP
DFW FINE PROPERTIES - Flower Mound, TX
Selling Homes Changing Lives

Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist - I hope you did something memorable on your anniversary yesterday! I really do believe laughter breaks up the ice when other people look so grim. As long as there is breath and doctors say they can do something, that's worth the fight to put on a smile, laugh a little and when you put others at ease, it makes them more comfortable and the patient too!

Way to go, Kathleen! You have so much to give and we have so much to learn from you. Virtual hugs to you today and always.

Patricia

Oct 12, 2020 03:03 AM
Patricia Feager, MBA, CRS, GRI,MRP

Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist - you are very special.  I am blessed to know you and I have no doubt the clients you serve feel the same. 


I am glad to hear you did celebrate your 8th year anniversary in the privacy of your own home and I pray you continue to be blessed with many, many more! 

Oct 12, 2020 08:11 AM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Estate Specialist

Patricia,  I am sure that when I take my last breath I will have a smile on my face ... life is just too precious to not embrace every single moment of it. 


I am blessed with clients so yesterday was a full workday.


I did manage to make homemade veggie curry and toasted my 8 year anniversary with a glass of Processo and a heart filled with gratitude. 
Thank you, Patricia Feager, MBA, CRS, GRI,MRP 

Oct 12, 2020 07:16 AM
Kat Palmiotti
406-270-3667, kat@thehousekat.com, Broker/REALTOR® - Kalispell, MT
Helping your Montana dreams take root

Yours is an inspiring story! And yes, laughter is great medicine, in every part of our life. 

Congratulations on your second birthday!

Oct 12, 2020 04:58 AM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Estate Specialist

Thank you, Kat Palmiotti 

Oct 12, 2020 07:17 AM
Dorte Engel
RE/MAX Leading Edge - Bowie, MD
ABC - Annapolis, Bowie, Crofton & rest of Maryland

Dear Kathleen,

So wonderful that you turned your experience into something that can help others and that you have such a good attitude about it. Keep it up.

Oct 12, 2020 06:59 AM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Estate Specialist

Dear Dorte,  Thank you. The experience was truly a gift. 

Oct 12, 2020 07:18 AM
Sheri Sperry - MCNE®
Coldwell Banker Realty - Sedona, AZ
(928) 274-7355 ~ YOUR Solutions REALTOR®

Hi Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist

It takes a lot of courage to share your story.  I am sure that this has encouraged and will continue to encourage others with similar challenges.  You are a role model for all.  Thank you.

Oct 12, 2020 11:44 AM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Estate Specialist

Thank you, Sheri Sperry - MCNE® 

Oct 12, 2020 03:02 PM
Jeff Dowler, CRS
eXp Realty of California, Inc. - Carlsbad, CA
The Southern California Relocation Dude

Hi Kathleen:

What a wonderful entry for the October Challenge. You are such a powerful role model (and not just about your cancer) and certainly had the right attitude about dealing with your cancer from the beginning, but about sharing the transformation that it brought to your life.

Jeff

Oct 12, 2020 12:03 PM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Estate Specialist

Jeff Dowler, CRS - the transformation was huge and why I see cancer as a gift.  Thank you. 

Oct 12, 2020 03:03 PM
Endre Barath, Jr.
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties - Beverly Hills, CA
Realtor - Los Angeles Home Sales 310.486.1002

Kathleen I remember it like it was yesterday and indeed I saw the transformation right here on this platform, stay safe and healthy, Endre

Oct 12, 2020 09:56 PM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Estate Specialist

Thank you, Endre Barath, Jr. 

Oct 13, 2020 10:14 AM
Brenda Mayette
Miranda Real Estate Group, Inc. - Glenville, NY
Getting results w/ knowledge & know-how!

Thank you for sharing your story Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist .  We never really know what people are carrying around in their histories.  Your attitude is a beautiful one and I wish you many happy moments within many birthdays.  

Oct 13, 2020 05:01 AM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Estate Specialist

Thank you, Brenda Mayette 

Oct 13, 2020 10:15 AM
Mary Hutchison, SRES, ABR
Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate-Kansas City Homes - Kansas City, MO
Experienced Agent in Kansas City Metro area

Enjoyed reading this blog today! Just about every day I hear about someone dying from cancer, getting diagnosed with cancer, starting treatment--it is EVERYWHERE.  So glad to hear you are a survivor with an emphasis on humor--that's how I get through the day--listening to comics on podcasts and the late night TV shows.

Oct 13, 2020 07:36 AM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Estate Specialist
KD Realty - 408.972.1822 - San Jose, CA
Probate Real Estate

Reading your comment brought a big smile to my face 😁
I do not know what I would do with funny things to watch and listen to - humor is a part of my daily life.  Thank you for your comment Mary Hutchison, SRES, ABR 

Oct 13, 2020 10:16 AM
Joe Jackson
Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty - Columbus, OH
Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert

A lot of people are inspired because of your posts! 

Oct 14, 2020 06:29 AM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Estate Specialist

Thank you, Joe Jackson - I appreciate your comment.

Oct 14, 2020 06:45 AM
Roy Kelley
Retired - Gaithersburg, MD

Congratulations on your feature recognition.

Thank you very much for sharing your story.

Take care and be safe.

Oct 15, 2020 08:08 AM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Estate Specialist

Thank you, Roy Kelley - May you and your beautiful wife, Dolores remain healthy and safe as well.

Oct 16, 2020 08:02 AM
Debb Janes EcoBroker and Bernie Stea JD
ViewHomes of Clark County - Nature As Neighbors - Camas, WA
REALTORS® in Clark County, WA

I am thrilled you are here telling your story. As for the eyebrows, I'm sure everyone appreciated it - doubt they would poke fun over someone trying to feel better and more confident about themselves. 

Oct 24, 2020 08:33 AM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Estate Specialist

I had an amazing surgeon and surgical team.  You are right, they likely all embraced the fact that chose to feel good going into it Debb Janes EcoBroker and Bernie Stea JD 

Oct 25, 2020 07:55 AM
Gary Frimann, CRS, GRI, SRES
Eagle Ridge Realty / Signature Homes & Estates - Gilroy, CA
REALTOR and Broker

Kathleen, since i know you personally, I must say that your humor is one of the many fine personality traits you possess!  Have a great day!

Oct 27, 2020 07:54 AM
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Estate Specialist

Thank you, Gary Frimann, CRS, GRI 

Oct 27, 2020 08:23 AM