I Hope You Dance…

Disbelief, rage, anger, frustration, numbness…that’s what you would feel if you were told that you have Non Hodgkins Lymphoma, a cancer that begins in the cells of the immune system. That’s what Mindy Krasner felt when her doctor diagnosed her with it. I was fortunate enough to attend a few lectures organized by UFCAHRE- Arts in Healthcare where I met Mindy, a beautiful ballet dancer from Las Vegas.She was diagnosed with Non Hodgkins Lymphoma 2 years ago. The diagnosis shattered her and plunged her into a deep ocean of pain and disbelief. While undergoing chemotherapy at the hospital, Mindy started dancing for all the other patients. Everybody loved her dance and it raised their spirits. They all looked forward to her dancing, each day. The arena where dreadful chemotherapy sessions were held was transformed into a stage for this brave, young woman who danced despite feeling weak and physically exhausted. She resurfaced from her agony and torment , bringing hope to all those who watched her. Her dance inspired everyone( all the cancer patients and the staff) to seek meaning in their lives even when they felt they were approaching the end. Mindy has started her own dance company and wants to dance for children who are hospitalized. She came to attend the lectures so that she could find a way to spearhead her vision. She is still weak and finds it hard to attend all the lectures but her courage is indomitable. I salute the spirit of this valiant woman. I pray that you may bring laughter ,hope and inspiration to the children in Las Vegas.