The Diamond Declaration
Diamonds - I've always loved them. I always thought that diamonds were for the rich, models, and movie stars. As I grew into my teenage years, whenever I saw someone wearing diamonds, I automatically assumed that they had self-assurance.
My diamond collection started rather tragically. I received my first pair of diamond studs as a teenager when my mother died of pancreatic cancer.
I wore my diamonds while pledging my sorority, during all of my exams, and dates. As I finished my senior year and graduated, I continued to look at my diamonds as they reflected back at me in my mirror. I definitely didn't look like a runway model. Maybe I was maturing or maybe my earlobes just couldn't take the weight of the heavy costume earrings any more.
In 2004, my father became seriously ill. My diamonds, my mother's diamonds, gave me courage to cope with my father's poor health and ultimately his death.
Little did I know, nine and a half weeks after my father's death, my biggest challenge lay ahead⦠I was diagnosed with breast cancer. A vision swept through my mind: Chemotherapy + wig = thousands of dollars OR continue to find courage through diamonds.
My diamonds stayed on my ears and eventually grew into a small jewelry collection . They gave me the guts to battle my cancer and helped me to reinvent myself.
Now, wearing diamonds daily is customary, like washing my face every day. When people admire my jewelry they say, "Your earrings and necklace are so beautiful."
I always say to myself: "You have no idea the meaning behind these babies."
And maybe wearing diamonds every day is my simple act of valor and courage, to continue my life as a strong, independent woman who is cancer free.
Penn Valley, PA