Young parents have mixed feelings about the participation trophies ubiquitous now. Sports, science fairs, all sorts of competitions from preschool to adulthood are rife with the practice. Most grandparents however do not object. In their eyes everyone of these darlings deserves recognition. I am a fan too because the shelf or desk with ribbons and trophies reminds the person they did something valuable, long after they forget their place in the standings.
These recognitions are not just for the young. Weekend warriors are proud to display the triathlon medal commemorating the years of training. So many memories tied up with that symbol. These prizes are much more than a souvenir. The child will recall his buddies on the team, the afternoons of practice, the way the parents cheered. The photo will hang on the wall long after they have graduated. These will ever be a remembrance of youth, energy, creativity and a belief in themselves. Not everyone can come in first. Not everyone has the gifted coach or teammates, the parents who can provide the attention while working, the money and time when the student needs to work through school. But everyone can experience a winning that celebrates an inner strength in spite of circumstances often unbeknown to others.
Where is the medal for beating or even working through the process of healing any major disease? Discharge from rehab after a heart attack, finishing chemo and radiation for cancer, recovering from a stroke, taking that first step. These should all be celebrated. The greater the life stressors, the more we should look forward to a participation trophy.
If no one has given you one, find your own trophy! Its about time. Look back at what you have accomplished with your therapy. Millie has a tattoo where her left breast had been. She is 85! Jim had a lightening bolt shaved in the scalp over his craniotomy scar. Ellen took a selfie with the radiation unit to hang on her wall. There are so many options.
The certificates we give here mean more to patients than any other achievement. Everyone gets one for their effort- cure isn’t necessary. Trophies are for showing up in life with courage and determination. Celebrate the amazing accomplishment of your battle. Buy a book or a pin or a challenge coin- something to commemorate you. Put it where you see it everyday and continue to inspire yourself. It will get into your soul and remind you of strength that you will never doubt again. Congratulations. You really are a winner!