Holly Butcher was a 27-year-old woman who, before passing away due to bone sarcoma, decided to write a profound message about the importance of physical and mental health.
In her text, the young woman reflects on how people often spend their energy on insignificant material worries instead of valuing the optimal functioning of their bodies.
The author describes the fragility of existence and strongly recommends enjoying nature and the company of loved ones as a way to reduce the stress of everyday life.
Her letter says the following:
“It’s a strange thing knowing you’re going to die young.
At 26, I thought I had time…
To fall in love.
Start a family.
Grow old.
But cancer doesn’t care about plans.
Now, I understand how fragile life really is. Every single day is a gift, not a guarantee.
I’m not writing this to scare you. I’m writing to remind you: really live.
Stop stressing over little things. Be kind to your body-move it, nourish it, stop criticizing it. One day you’ll wish you had appreciated it.
Go outside.
Look at the sky.
Feel the sun.
Just be.
Spend less time chasing “stuff” – more time making memories. Don’t skip moments with people you love.
Laugh more.
Write a note.
Tell someone you love them.
Complain less.
Give more.
Helping others brings more joy than anything you can buy.
Be present.
Put your phone down.
Show up – really show up.
You don’t need to have it all figured out. You don’t need a perfect body, or a perfect life.
Just follow what makes your heart light up. Say no to what drains you. Make changes when you need to.
And please – donate blood. I wouldn’t have had that extra year without it. And that year gave me memories
I’ll hold close… forever.
Thank you for reading this.
Live your life well.
And maybe….. we’ll meet again someday.”
Holly