"Square Peg" by Jenna Steele

Still I Rise Podcast

An excerpt from Jenna's story: "Throughout my journey, feeling like a square peg, my husband Rich has been my cornerstone. He is my Superman. Rich is compassionate, caring, loving, non-judgmental and could make me laugh during the darkest days. He gives "tough love" even when I don't want to hear it. Rich made some very tough medical decisions that I would never have agreed to, but I am very grateful that he did. He reminded me constantly that we had two very young sons that needed both a father and a mother. Even if I didn't want to fight or be strong any longer, he would have me look at our boys. This gave me the strength to keep on fighting every time. My family has been my motivation- my husband, my boys, my parents and my sisters. Without their help, support and motivation, I do not think I would still be here.

You need to look out for number one. You need to take care of yourself. You need to be your own advocate. You need to do what is best for you, physically and emotionally.

As time passes, the square peg keeps trying to fit into the round hole. The hole begins to get bigger and bigger, to the point where the square peg does fit into the round hole. We all are beautiful and are enough just the way we are. We are born worthy of love and acceptance. Love your little square peg- love yourself no matter what."

Hello! I'm Lisa McKenzie, the Founder of You Night Events and the "We Lift You Up" fund 501c3 public charity dedicated to helping cancer survivors find a path forward after a diagnosis. Life is never the same after hearing the words, "You have cancer." For many, the trauma of the experience can interfere with living life to the fullest. Our "Story Crafting" Program helps individuals deconstruct a challenging life event and reconstruct it. Listen in!

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Still I Rise features stories from You Night's STORY CRAFTING COMMUNITY. To read additional stories, visit our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/YouNightStories. Would you like to participate in a 6-week Story Crafting small group experience so that you can share your story? Write to us at [e-mail]