Lady in Red

Everyday I walk by a woman sitting in the waiting room wearing a red outfit. It never fails, everyday she is in red from head-to-toe. We are always polite to one another, and exchange a friendly hello. That's as far as it usually goes because it seems she is always finishing her treatment when I'm coming in to start mine.

The other day I had a an earlier treatment time because I had a different appointment later in the day. I was excited to have the chance to talk to her. When I got to the hospital I didn't see her. I was bummed becuse I thought I missed her. Luckily, she was just in a different area and she soon returned to the main oncology area.

We got to to chatting about anything, and everything. I heard all about her children and grandchildren. I told her about my family, and my wonderful friends. We became fast friends. I felt comfortable able enough to ask her why she only wears red. She told me that her husband had recently past, and he loved the color red. He always said she looked beautiful in red, so she was wearing red to honor him. She told me she bought all new clothes, so she could wear red everyday. She said she didn't care what anyone else thought about it. She was doing it because it's simething she wanted to do, and it made her feel like her husband was still with her everyday.

I was so touched by her story. She didn't care what other people thought of her behavior. She was doing what was best for her. She wore red to help cope with the loss of the one she loved the most. I told her she looked beautiful in her red get-up, and to keep sporting her red outfits. I know her hubby is looking down smiling everyday seeing her heart-warming tribute to her late husband.

She really made me thing about my life and what I have been wearing. Going through treatments, I have heightened sensitivities to taste, smell, and especially touch. I cannot handle the feeling of denim, silk, and many other types of fabric. I can pretty much only wear cotton. I feel like a slob 90% of the time because I am wearing a sweatshirt and cotton pants. The only time I look semi-pretty is when I can find a nice cotton dress.

After talking to Anita( the lady in red ). She mad me realize it doesn't matter what we wear. Our clothes do not define us. We don't have to explain our outfits to anyone. Clothing is just clothing. There are so many more important things in life