Common Attributes of “Miracle Survivors”

October 17, 2009 - Posted by tamilb
Miracle Survivor Greg Barnhill

Miracle Survivor Greg Barnhill

So what makes a “miracle survivor?” When I started the journey of interviewing individuals who’ve beat the odds of a terminal and/or incurable diagnosis, I’ve found many attributes they share:

  • They don’t buy into statistics and the death sentences many of them were given.
  • They never gave up no matter what. They may have had down times, but were able to pull it together and do what they needed to do.
  • They choose to look on the positive side, see the gifts that a cancer diagnosis brings.
  • They have a strong desire to give back and make a difference in other people’s lives, whether it is fundraising, lobbying or supporting other survivors.
  • Most have a strong sense of faith. Even if they didn’t believe in God, they believed in a higher power(s).
  • They all have support from family, loved ones or support groups. These connections gave them a reason to carry on.

This entry was posted on Saturday, October 17th, 2009 at 4:31 PM and is filed under Common Attributes of Miracle Survivors. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

2 Comments

  1. tamilb says:

    Here’s another comment from the Share Your Story bin:
    Hey Tami! I’m not a survivor but your latest picture reminded me or the Outdoor Bloggers Summit (OBS) cancer sucks challenge. See more at http://outdoorbloggerssummit.com/2009/08/an-obs-challenge-fight-like-susan.html . I particilated on my blog also. I just wanted to let you know about this and say hello. It’s funny how that picture of Greg sparked my memory of the OBS challenge and I just wanted to write you and let you know about it.

    Justin Raines
    http://www.greatwildoutdoors.com

    ... on October 19th, 2009
  2. Michelle says:

    Hi Tami,

    I was diagnosed with IBC in 2005 and was given a year to live. As you can see, I’m still here! I consider every day a miracle. I believe God saved me through the prayers of many. I belive it’s very important for me to appreciate being here and live life with gratitude and purpose. God was a huge part of my acceptance, surrender and thriving. Thanks for your articles. Michelle

    ... on April 21st, 2010

Post a Comment