Tales from the Road

“Certainly, travel is more than the seeing of sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.” —Miriam Beard

Just recently I presented the award for the Moissanite Milestone Moments contest to Ms. Nichelle Eggleston. While the purpose of my trip was to represent Charles & Colvard at the presentation, it ended up being more than an award ceremony and so much more than “just a business trip”.

As I entered Nichelle’s place of work, I was overwhelmed with the amount of care and love everyone had for her. For those of you, who haven’t read Nichelle’s story on this site, I encourage you to do so. Nichelle is one dynamic woman and an 18-year, two-time cancer survivor! When you meet Nichelle, you are immediately taken aback by her radiant personality and larger-than-life positive attitude.

Nichelle’s “milestone moment” started when she found out she needed to have her leg amputated due to cancer. Her story of courage, strength and determination is truly an uplifting message to all.

I met Nichelle’s mom and dad, her aunt and her daughters Danita and Coryn, as well as her friends and co-workers who had gathered to honor her. They told me stories about how Nichelle has helped others through her dedication as a Social Work Director for Genesis Healthcare. One particular co-worker told me how Nichelle has always rejected the use of a “handicapped” parking permit… and how she has never considered her condition to merit special treatment.

It was both an honor and a privilege to present the Milestone Moments prize to such a deserving woman. As Nichelle said to me, “I focus on my abilities, not my disabilities.” Wow! It’s not often you have the chance to meet someone who has faced a tremendous challenge head-on and turned it into an opportunity to become the best person she can be.

On March 12, Nichelle wrote me an email and I wanted to share her message:

“The brilliance of me: growing, teaching, learning, living and just being me. Not being defined by what is obvious to see. I live to show you how brilliant, and fabulous you and I can be.”

Her email was signed, “God Bless, Nichelle—Who said that being FAB-U-LOUS isn’t an option?”

Traveling certainly brings you to unexpected, amazing places—but it’s the people you meet that teach you unexpected, amazing lessons.

Have a fabulous day!