“You have cancer!”
It was a devastating diagnosis which I received over four years ago. A diagnosis that left me reeling, and questioning everything. The biggest question of all: Why me?
Answering this question forced me to take the time to think about all aspects of my life, including how I neglected my health for so long. I realized that I put everyone else’s needs in front of my own. I filled my days at work helping others and taking care of my family while ignoring my own needs, until I was forced to face this diagnosis and reflect on my life. Taking time to prioritize myself and accepting help was very difficult. At one point in my journey I came across a statement that said “to heal, you must take care of yourself and this requires self love”. This took some serious work and reflection, for if you truly love yourself, you take care of your body, accept help, and do things that make you happy. This was the most powerful healing advice I have received! This helped me to change my perspective on all aspects of my life. I began to feel more empathy and kindness towards others. I recognized the depth of my love for my husband and two daughters and how much they mean to me. I leaned into my faith and deepened my relationship with the Lord, feeling immense gratitude for the blessings in my life. I experienced true happiness in an entirely new way. How can you be happy when you have cancer? Is this truly my blessing? I believe it is! I see others for the worth that they have, I love deeper and have faith that overcomes my fear. Someone once said “hurt people hurt people”. Wow! What an insightful statement. When I look at our society, I see people who are hurt, filled with anger, hatred and ready for a fight. I believe if everyone could love themselves, it would heal their hearts, and our world would be a better place. So I challenge you to truly love yourself. It is a blessing!
Sandy McCormack
Special Education Teacher
Willink Middle School (retired Spring 2019)
As of this posting, Andy (Sandy's husband) has shared in Caring Bridge (click here) that Sandy has been having a particularly difficult time through this devastating pandemic. I wanted to let her, Andy and the girls know that I'm thinking of them, praying for them and sending them positive thoughts and love.
Update (7/17/20): Andy shared last night that Sandy has returned to her final home with Jesus. A light has gone out that will never be turned on again. Sandy's inspirational humor and spirit through her darkest time has spread to so many that knew her. I am forever grateful to her for opening up her heart to me and to her family I wish peace and strength, love and prayers.
If you're part of Sandy's community of family and friends (and even if you're not), feel free to leave Andy and the girls a comment and/or words of support and love. <3
30 Comments
Aug 4, 2020, 6:37:34 PM
Linda Hayes - Thank you Sasha.
Aug 3, 2020, 8:44:10 AM
Sasha - Reading this blog, I found Sandy had some beautiful insights. She was right about our need to love ourselves and heal our world. I am so sorry for your loss.
Jul 30, 2020, 5:24:49 PM
Gina DiTullio - Sandy was a beautiful person, inside and out. I am blessed to have known her and worked with her. She is an inspiration and will be sorely missed by so many.
Jul 23, 2020, 9:56:41 PM
Susan Ackerman - What a beautiful Mom and wife you were blessed with. Until you see her again... she and God will watch over ❤️
Jul 23, 2020, 8:32:38 PM
Dawn White - Andy, My heart goes out to you and your family. Sandy blessed many lives and you both touched mine. So many beautiful tributes to express what a special woman she was. I'm sorry I couldn't have helped more in her healing journey but it was hers to take and in her own way. She will be remembered by so many and the kindness she gave will continue to grow. Continued prayers for you and your family. You know if you need to vent I'm a phone call away. Continue to share your memories with your girls it will help with your healing. Bless, Dawn
Jul 23, 2020, 7:52:07 PM
Chrissy Scira Thomas - My deepest, and heartfelt condolences go out to her entire family, and especially Andy, and their 2 beautiful daughters. May she RIP pain free her beautiful light will continue to shine on through her daughters I am deeply sorry, and I pray for your peace, strength, and comfort.❤️
Jul 18, 2020, 2:56:05 PM
Karen Caiazza - Dear McCormack family,
I am so sorry to hear of Sandy’s passing. She was my supervisor at Monroe BOCES for several years. Sandy always treated me with kindness and respect and injected wisdom, understanding and humor into our meetings. She had a warm smile and a positive presence and was a great role model.
May she Rest In Peace.
Jul 17, 2020, 7:50:36 PM
Len & Teresa D. - Andy & Family:
We send our deepest condolences to you, your daughters and entire family. Sandy and I went to high school together. My family and I ran into you, Sandy and girls at Chili's in Webster about 2.5 years ago. It was there that I learned about Sandy's fight. Know that she was kept in prayer from that moment on. This truly hits home for me, as I lost my sister to cancer in August '18 after a valiant two year battle. She too was positive, strong and very courageous throughout her fight.
I am glad that Sandy was filled with great strength, fight, optimism and the lord above. Know that she's now at peace in heaven, watching over your entire family.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
RIP Sandy.
Jul 17, 2020, 6:37:11 PM
Stan Herendeen - It really saddens me that Sandy has moved on to another realm. Always one of my favorite people. A true ray of sunshine. My sympathy to all of you. Please let me know about funeral arraignments. Thanks. Stan
Jul 17, 2020, 3:40:29 PM
Beth - Sandy I know you are in His amazing presence, where there is no more pain, sorrow, or sickness. You will be truly missed and I am sad, but I know I will see you again. I am so grateful for your friendship, for you as a boss/leader, and most importantly as a fellow sister in Christ.
Sing praises! Love and prayers for your family.
Jul 16, 2020, 7:35:36 PM
Mark A. Head - Beneath Another Sky
What happens to us when the lights go down?
While family and friends are all gathered round
Our gaze transfixed on another star
No wonders or worries
In this galaxy-afar
A dance on the clouds
And an endless smile
No pain and suffering
There on our dial.
Don’t worry at all
it will all work out
Tomorrow or tonight
when those lights go out
Sandy you were one in a million. A beautiful smile and a brave heart. Glad that you are st peace now. You going to the good fight. You have been an inspiration to so many. And to “those kids” magic... you are missed.❤️
Jul 6, 2020, 11:40:35 PM
Jamie - That is very powerful! One I’ll take to heart. When you were at BOCES you taught me a lot. You continue to be an amazing teacher.
Jun 26, 2020, 1:55:43 PM
Christina Hoffman - Dear Sandy,
What a deeply powerful statement. You are so very right. People find it easier to be angry than happy. Thank you for sharing your thoughts. Hope you will feel better.
Blessings,
...yet another Christina
Jun 17, 2020, 5:52:11 PM
Traci powlowski - Sandy:
Not sure if you will remember me. Its Traci Powlowski social worker from Cosgrove. We started together many moons ago in Spencerport. I'm so sorry to learn on your cancer. I wish you peace and serenity as you enjoy life with your beautiful family. My have your children grown into wonderful adults. I'm so glad you have found what's important to you in life. My prayers are with you and yours.
Traci
May 13, 2020, 6:31:25 PM
Stan Herendeen - Hi, Sandy. It's Stan. I was worried that you might be struggling during this difficult time (pandemic). I hope you feel better soon and sending my love to you and your family. Stan
Apr 23, 2020, 8:48:32 PM
Della Mosca - Some of life’s highest mountains seem smaller when viewed from the top... I think of you often and pray you have the Spirit of the Lord always in front of you
Apr 15, 2020, 10:53:11 AM
Marisely Marte - Your story will forever change many of us. Especially loving ourselves and practice gratitude every day. I'm so thankful that I got the opportunity to meet you in our Wednesday group.
Apr 9, 2020, 11:00:05 PM
Kathy Garcia - Sandy I am so glad that I have had the pleasure of meeting you, working with you and sharing our lives with each other. What you have shared with me is such an immense inner strength that I gain strength from you and your journey. Your story is uplifting, encouraging, real, and truthful- the good bad and the ugly.
Know you are in my thoughts and prayers during these difficult times.
Apr 9, 2020, 7:46:21 PM
Kim Ganley - Hi Sandy-
We go way back working so hard at SLPs together in the RCSD, working hard and long days as school administrators and always loving what we do but putting the work and our own children ahead of our own needs. I get it! I was so happy to bring you to Webster and Willink as I knew you could do so much good for our students in 12:1:1 with significant communication needs because you’re the best!!! Yet, regardless of your talents it is so important to love and nurture yourself and your family!!! I’m glad you’ve learned that and count your blessings. May you enjoy this Easter season and the blessings it brings. Peace be with you!! Hugs
Apr 9, 2020, 9:27:44 AM
Mary Beth Hampton - Hi Sandy! I remember how much fun we had roller skating and hanging out when we were kids! I wish you all the luck and good health in the world! You have such a beautiful family! Your girls look just like you and I'm sure they are amazing! I have three boys and four grandchildren! Can you believe that! My husband and I just had our 33rd wedding anniversary. Where did the time go??? I hope you have a full and speedy recovery!
Apr 8, 2020, 9:59:27 PM
Deb Arieno - Sandy, Your words are so moving and insightful. You really are a true inspiration, and you remind me of the type of person I want to be. Stay strong.
Apr 8, 2020, 1:04:47 PM
Stephanie - You and your story are inspiring to all Sandy! Prayers to you and your family.
Love you❤️ Stephanie
Apr 8, 2020, 8:03:34 AM
Linda Hayes - Thank you Joy! It was a pleasure to get to know Sandy and her family better.
Apr 8, 2020, 7:59:33 AM
Chrissy Thomas - May god bless you and your family, today, and everyday. I pray for you, and your wellness, healing, and strength. I pray for all your family, especially your husband, and beautiful daughters ☀️
Apr 7, 2020, 10:34:30 PM
Jean Benedetto - Your story is lovely, like you! Your story is very important and and I’m wishing you better days ahead re your illness and this awful Coronavirus. What a beautiful family you have. God is blessing you each day, and I hope you feel His love! Jeanb
Apr 7, 2020, 9:52:24 PM
Rita DeCann - May god pull you through this tough time Sandy. May god bless you and your family and get rid of your cancer.
Apr 7, 2020, 8:36:42 PM
Anna Marie Finnegan - Sandy - what a truly uplifting story and what an amazing woman, mom, wife and friend you are. Although we were never in the same crowd in high school Facebook reconnected us. I follow your care page and can see what a strong person you are and how strong your family is being for you. Not everyone in a cancer journey has the positiveness that you have shown. You are a great example to all! Be strong my friend. If we were not in the middle of a pandemic I would drive over and hug you! Praying for you, your health, and your family.
Apr 7, 2020, 7:55:30 PM
Sue Zajac (McIntyre) - Thinking of you, I have such great memories of our time, this is a trying time and wish the best ti you and your family.
Take care, Shmack
Apr 7, 2020, 4:45:30 PM
Joy Ruffell - I remember the day you told me you were going to do this. Sandy I am so proud of you. I remember the day you told my you were going to be featured. Thank you Hayes Photography for sharing her story. Sandy is the most beautiful person inside and out.
Apr 7, 2020, 4:39:30 PM
Beth Brasser - Thanks for sharing another “profile in courage”, Linda. Am wishing Sandy much better days ahead. As a former teacher, I can only imagine how hard it must have been to shift your focus from your students to yourself. Even now, with this pandemic, so many teachers are agonizing that they cannot do more for their “kids” (their students). However, there comes a time when you must realign your priorities. The photos of your family are beautiful; I’m sure they are a treasure. Wishing you well. ❤️