February 1, 2020

By Anne Dabbs, 
NCAN TN Chapter Leader, NET Patient

True Confession:
I do not know much about basketball other than the frenzy of the collegiate season ending games in March each year. But I am very familiar with the legacy of Coach Pat Summitt. Coach Summitt is best known for winning more games than any other NCAA Division One basketball coach, male or female, at the time of her retirement. She almost single handedly elevated the game of women’s collegiate basketball into a position of national recognition. And if that isn’t impressive enough, in her 38 years of coaching at the University of Tennessee, her players had a 100% graduation rate.

In reading any of the books written about Pat Summitt you will learn a handful of basic truths about her:
1. She never backed down from a challenge.
2. Perseverance could have been her middle name.
3. She knew how to live in the moment.
4. She was revered among her fans and competitors for her no nonsense approach to life and coaching.
5. Her many quotes and quips are legendary.

Many of Summitt’s quotes are as applicable to living with Neuroendocrine Cancer as they are to competitive coaching and her 5 year battle with Alzheimer’s disease. I’m sharing a few of my favorites in hope that they give you a winning edge in your quest to live your best life possible with Neuroendocrine Cancer:

“It is what it is. But, it will be what you make it.”

“Attitude lies somewhere between emotion and logic. It’s that curious mix of optimism and determination that enables you to maintain a positive outlook and to continue plodding in the face of the most adverse circumstances.”

“Attitude is a choice. Think positive thoughts daily. Believe in yourself.”

“Left foot, right foot, breathe.”

Visit Inspiration Corner for more quotes.

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Disclaimer: NCAN blog posts are the opinions of its writers and are not intended as a replacement for medical advice. Please consult your Health Care Providers for individual concerns.