10. Maria Buscemi | The Living List: Living Fully in the Midst of Cancer

In this powerful episode, we invite you to listen to Maria’s deeply moving and courageous story of living with stage four appendiceal cancer. With raw honesty, Maria opens up about her diagnosis, the grueling treatments, the mental and emotional toll, and the unexpected blessings that emerged along the way—from rekindled love to her inspiring “living list.” Through resilience, gratitude, and unwavering hope, she offers a reminder of what truly matters. Whether you or someone you love has faced illness or you’re simply looking for perspective and inspiration, this conversation will touch your heart and remind you to live fully—right now.

“Cancer can’t be my life. Chemo can’t be my life. It is a part of my life, but it’s not who I am.”- Maria

Key Takeaways:

• The importance of self-advocacy in healthcare: Maria’s initial symptoms were dismissed by urgent care as minor, which delayed her diagnosis. Her story underscores the need to trust your body and advocate for yourself when something doesn’t feel right.

• Cancer doesn't discriminate based on lifestyle: Despite being healthy, active, and having no family history, Maria was diagnosed with stage four appendiceal cancer. This highlights how critical early detection and awareness are, regardless of perceived health.

• Resilience is built in the face of trauma: Maria's journey through multiple surgeries, rounds of chemotherapy, and a secondary breast cancer diagnosis reveals extraordinary mental and physical resilience. 

• The "Living List" as a way to reclaim joy: Instead of a “bucket list,” Maria created a “living list” of simple and meaningful goals every four months to celebrate life.

• Support systems matter profoundly: Maria’s healing was deeply influenced by her strong support network—her family, friends, partner, and former students. 

• Gratitude transforms the cancer journey: Throughout her story, Maria maintains a spirit of gratitude—not just for survival, but for the love, memories, and perspective gained through her experience. Her outlook is a testament to how gratitude can coexist with grief and fear. About Maria Buscemi:
  

  Meet Maria Buscemi — a courageous and inspiring woman living with stage 4 appendix cancer. In the face of immense challenges, Maria is learning how to move through life’s hardest moments while still embracing joy, gratitude, and beauty in the everyday. Her journey has reshaped her outlook, deepening her appreciation for the present and the quiet power of small kindnesses. She shares part of her powerful story on In the Blink, offering hope, perspective, and strength to anyone navigating their own battles. Connect with Maria:

  Instagram: Zia_Maria84 

  Facebook: Maria Buscemi

  
  
  
  

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