"She's strong, she'll make it". Do you know them, too, such sentences? They are supposed to cheer you up, give you encouragement. But often you feel pressured and alone. Because what at least people see is what's behind the facade. When the soul is sometimes lonely and afraid. But you know what? That is also completely okay. 

One may be both - strong and weak. 

It is only important to admit the weak moments. To let them out without breaking down, and then to get up again with new energy. 

Sure, everyone wants to hear the story of how bravely one goes through illnesses, traumas or strokes of fate. But that is only half the truth. Because the darker sides are also part of it. They are what make you so incredibly strong. But unfortunately they also leave traces. They are like scars for the soul. And only very few people see them. They are the ones that need time to heal. 

To show yourself to the world today for the first time with the injuries and scars that the disease has brought requires a lot of courage. But this step is all the more important in order to accept oneself as one is. To get to know yourself anew. To learn to love yourself anew. 

And my dear Vanessa, let me tell you, your body tells its own story. And you can be damn proud of it, because it makes you the woman you are today. Beautiful, strong and an unconditional fighter.