A Wake-Up Call to Live Fully
Keisha's story began with a life-altering diagnosis: multiple myeloma, a rare and incurable form of cancer. Receiving such a diagnosis at the age of 38 was a profound wake-up call, and instead of succumbing to fear, Keisha decided to live her life with vigour and purpose. The three-to-five-year life expectancy the doctors initially gave her became a catalyst for change. She transformed the diagnosis into an opportunity to reassess her life's priorities, focusing on what truly mattered to her, especially her daughter.
From Complacency to Action
During our discussion, Keisha admitted that complacency had kept her from pursuing certain dreams during her successful career in retail banking. The shock of her diagnosis served as a powerful reminder of time's finite nature and propelled her into action. Keisha founded her first business and then another, determined to build a legacy that wasn't solely defined by financial success but by the meaningful impact she could have on others. Her story illustrates the importance of taking chances and daring to change, rather than waiting for the "right time."
Living with Invisible Disabilities
We touched on the theme of invisible disabilities, an area Keisha is passionate about shedding light on. Despite her glowing appearance in public, Keisha deals with the relentless side effects of her treatment, which include chronic nausea and fatigue. Her insight into living with invisible disabilities highlighted the importance of empathy and understanding in our interactions with others. It's an important reminder that as leaders, we must create inclusive environments that account for the unseen challenges team members may face.
Find your Coping Mechanism
A special part of our conversation was Keisha's explanation of a unique coping mechanism: red lipstick. For Keisha, a swipe of red lipstick is not only an empowering statement but also a subtle armour on days she feels unwell. It's a reminder that we all have our own ways of masking vulnerabilities while simultaneously finding strength in them. By openly acknowledging this, Keisha exemplifies the importance of embracing one's authentic self, even on the hardest days.
Building a Limitless Legacy
Keisha's journey is a testament to the concept of a limitless legacy. Beyond her personal struggles, she has dedicated herself to raising awareness around multiple myeloma and encouraging others to pursue their dreams relentlessly. She redefines legacy not as a grand, unreachable goal, but as a series of meaningful actions and moments that contribute to the lives of those around us. Her message is clear: whether it’s learning something new or changing careers, we should strive to live fully in the present. Keisha's story is a reminder that challenges, while daunting, can ignite positive transformation. Her resilience and determination to live life on her own terms is incredibly inspiring.
