Retired or Refired?

As a former oncology nurse, I had vowed that I would never undergo chemotherapy. I had witnessed too many devastating side effects suffered by my patients.

But when I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, I knew that like my patients, I needed to go through the process. Dark shadows of fear skulked the path of chemotherapy that offered me its bitter poison: baldness, fatigue, throbbing pain, chemo brain, nausea and vomiting, and a life-threatening allergic reaction.

By the grace of God, I made it to the other side and returned to my career as a nurse, retiring several years later.

I had lost myself to ovarian cancer and chemotherapy, but in losing myself to ovarian cancer, I found a new purpose and calling in my life—to write encouraging articles for women undergoing chemotherapy and advocate for and educate women regarding ovarian cancer.

Today is Refired, Not Retired Day.

How will you be refired when you retire?

What can God use from your past to re-purpose your future?

8 thoughts on “Retired or Refired?”

  1. I love the term refired and hearing how it has played out in your life in such a powerful way. What an encouragement you are!

    I look forward to the time your book comes out. Can’t wait!

  2. Anita Klumpers

    What a great line! You have a unique and wonderful story, and such a gift of encouragement.
    I’ll have to keep pondering on how I can be refired!

  3. Robin Steinweg

    What a beautiful article and testimony, Joanie! So proud of you. And fired up in your behalf!!! As Lori said, I can hardly wait until your book is published!

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