New Year, New ACS Voice

by | Dec 28, 2017 | Community

 When we can avail ourselves to them, life gives us opportunities and challenges that transform us. Cancer did that for me. It screeched my life to a halt and forced me to reconsider priorities, life style choices, and values. Looking back, I can say that cancer saved my life. Nineteen years later, cancer provided me a second opportunity to reflect and be open to possibilities. Again, I felt myself listening for discoveries and insights as I approached this later stage of life. Feeling at the cusp of transition, I met Diana Sevanian, volunteer writer for the American Cancer Society in Santa Clarita. A series of fortunate occurrences, experiences, and new acquaintances lead me to her, and we found ourselves sitting on a curb outside the ACS office. As we talked, I instantly felt her loving and generous spirit, her compassion and commitment to a cause greater than herself. Her warmth was welcoming and reassuring. She had made the decision to end her tenure as writer and reporter for ACS, a role she held for almost two decades. We discussed her position and the possibility of my undertaking it. As we talked about work and life, I felt deep gratitude and joy. This opportunity, unexpected but so appreciated, sneaked up and sat poised before me. Some might say it was meant to be. Diana calls it Kismet. I know that listening and being open to possibilities brought me to this moment. I am thankful that our paths aligned, and I am happy to accept this invitation.
I will be undertaking Diana’s role as news writer for Santa Clarita’s chapter of the American Cancer Society. I am eager to join this active, dedicated group of volunteers which provides information, services, and support programs for cancer patients and their families. It is with humility and some apprehension that I step in for Diana. She has been a respected and consistent voice promoting American Cancer Society events and programs in the Santa Clarita Valley. However, with her guidance and support, I hope to carry on the good work she has done and continue to make contributions to our community.
Mary Petersen is a COC English instructor, longtime SCV resident, and two-time breast cancer survivor.

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