My photography allows me to experience uninhibited feelings through the lens. Being in the moment to feel hope, happiness, lightness, confidence and connection with the beautiful scenes of nature is a diversion from my oftentimes chaotic journey with cancer. 
&nbsp; 
In this photograph, the caterpillar signifies new potential with a promise of life. I took the photograph as part of series featuring the caterpillar and the butterfly. Both photos were taken on a day when I was not feeling quite like myself with no idea that only a few months later I was to learn of my stage 3 cancer diagnosis. Yet, at the time, I was drawn to this enchanting caterpillar, which represents potential, patience and new life. When the caterpillar births into the butterfly, it further signifies endurance, change, hope, transformation and rebirth. Where there is life, there is hope! I look at this photograph often and feel patiently hopeful for the moment, for the day. 
&nbsp;

I am a 20-year survivor of breast cancer, but I am now struggling with this disease. I am a patient at St. Francis Cancer Institute, and I do watercolor art therapy with the palliative care nurse at the St. Francis Infusion Center while I get my treatments. I called this one Perseverance because I will not give up!

Perseverance 

My husband, Paul, was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2011, and I&#39;ve been a caregiver for him. Then, last year, I was diagnosed with cancer, so Paul became my caregiver. 
&nbsp; 
During Paul&#39;s treatments at CCHC New Bern Cancer Center in North Carolina, we would look out the window at the waterfall and waterlilies while watching the koi swimming in the pond. This pond helped both of us -- Paul with his treatments and me with my worries about him and his cancer. During a rough time receiving chemotherapy or thinking about prognosis or test results, it was so relaxing and peaceful to look at the pond. 
&nbsp; 
More recently, CCHC New Bern moved to merge with CarolinaEast SECU Cancer Center, leaving the pond behind. I wanted to bring some of &quot;our peaceful place&quot; to the new hospital. Now, walking through the door, the first thing you see is my painting hanging on the wall. The koi pond may be gone, but some of its peace and tranquility are still there. It reminds me that we made it through hard times, and together we will make it through whatever life throws our way. It&#39;s been a journey and the ride is far from being over, but there is always hope. 
&nbsp;

Hope & Life

By Sasha S Bialock

February 10th, 2020

Latest News