I had never heard that expression until my daughter, Emily, an Executive Coach filled with positivity and belief that all is possible, said it to me. The expression has been on my mind ever since. And not because I always believe in the power of “Yes!” It is more because I am frequently met with “No,” and love the possibilities that abound upon hearing it.

As babies, one of the first words we hear is “no,” because there is an unsafe world around us, and adults are protecting us from our natural curiosities. As we become more independent, when we hear a negative, we garner enough strength to question and determine how we should react. It has taken me a very long time to understand that it is fine to question and it is fine to look to the Yes in a situation.

Many people reach out to me for advice or support with their physical health. And I believe all of my experiences have given me the confidence needed to offer my view or opinion. Undoubtedly, there have been so many No’s along the way in my quest for answers about my own confusing, frustrating and overwhelming challenges, that the pages of my book could be riddled with negative responses. “We have no idea why you have countless blockages.” Or “none of the tests have given us enough information to make a conclusive diagnosis.” These “no’s” can break the spirit, especially when the spirit is so fragile and vulnerable.”

But the day my surgeon, Dr. Paul Starker, told me they had a “Yes” for me, I appreciated all of the no’s. I was ready…I didn’t question, I didn’t look back, I didn’t think about the day after my surgery. My thoughts were on my freedom from the chains the confluence of events wrapped around me. I was determined to begin anew, and I am so grateful for my ileostomy four years ago.

When patients reach out to me for support, I try to bring my view that there will be positives despite the negatives. My goal is to provide belief that good things, many “yes” answers are around the corner. I believe in the power we all hold in our hands, hearts and minds, and I want to share that with all who need to know.

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