With hope the odds don't matter - happy Thanksgiving, Heather!

Last week I was approached by Heather, whom I don't know in person, but she obviously read my turkey post.

Heather was diagnosed with Pleural Mesothelioma 8 years ago, just after giving birth to her baby girl, Lily, and the doctors gave her 15 months to live. Looking at the picture below - baby Lily is now 8 years old - you can tell that Heather is not only a cancer survivor, but also an amazing person with a super positive attitude!

Heather, Cameron and Lily

You can watch and read Heather's story in her own words. 

Where do I come in? I wish I could tell you that I was one of the doctors who cured her, but no. I am just a blogger whom she asked to spread awareness and post about what I am grateful for.

I tried to observe myself for the last couple of days and take mental notes about the many things I am thankful for.

To have my husband of almost 10 years and son in my life. They are everything to me! 

Christian who works 6 days a week to make sure everything is taken care of at the office and is happy that I get to do fun stuff in the meantime. 

Colin who is smart, cheerful and warmhearted and appreciates that I go all the way when it comes to birthday and other parties!

My parents who live in the same village, take care of Colin, visit often, are supportive and don't butt in our parenting style.

And who like to have a glass of wine!

My job to which I can walk to - what a treat on the first day of snow! 

Not only am I grateful that I don't have to commute to the airport anymore, but that I am able to walk at all. I know that many people can't.

My car - because walking is nice and all. but some days I wouldn't be able to carry all the junk I have to move!

My contact lenses - without them I wouldn't be able to see a dramatic sky like this, also I wouldn't be able to drive. 

The camera my mom gave me. The pictures I take are much better than with the old one.

Good friends who visit and make us laugh!

My colleagues from the charity. Even if I quit, I will remember how many of them are so generous with their time and have a big heart!

My coffee bean friends - former and current Starbucks partners. They contributed to an incredible experience during the 5 years I was there. So great to bump into them at the mall and enjoy a spontaneous coffee tasting together!

My community. I grew up here, so I know quite some people around here. I feel safe letting Colin walk to school alone. 

Today the Christmas tree was being set up which is an event that attracts many citizens. Some bring gingerbread and other yummies for the potluck buffet. I was talking to a mother of a Kindergarten friend of Colin's. This is going to be their last holiday season in Switzerland for a while - in January they will move to Bolivia for a couple of years.

My freedom - politically, religiously. Living in the land of milk and honey chocolate, a neutral country with an unemployment rate of less than 4%. Being located in a part of the world where there are no tornadoes, earthquakes, floodings, forest fires.

And all this was just off the top of my head. 

I haven't even mentioned yet how grateful I am for the Internet, Facebook, Youtube, Blogger, Pinterest, you name it. Kidding aside, 

I have met many online friends who I care about! 

Happy Thanksgiving!