Transforming adversity into inspiration is the driving force behind the Gratitude Solidarity Notebook, a tool created by Gemma Romaguera, an integrative health coach, who shares her testimony as a woman who has battled breast cancer, with the goal of promoting gratitude while supporting cancer research. This project invites individuals to connect with the positive, even in the toughest times.
What is the Gratitude Solidarity Notebook?
The project is my way of continuing to plant seeds in the garden of oncological research for a future without breast cancer. The Gratitude Solidarity Notebook is born from the recognition of those who came before me and planted the seeds that allow us to be alive today. With this simple but powerful tool, I invite others to train gratitude while contributing to such an important cause as scientific research.
What benefits have you found in practicing gratitude?
Gratitude has a profound impact. Grateful people are often happier and more satisfied with their surroundings, relationships, and themselves. They experience greater hope, optimism, and self-esteem, which boosts their performance at work and in their studies. Additionally , gratitude is linked to stronger relationships,a healthier lifestyle, and better rest.
What have you learned about the support of others?
Close support is essential. People who accompany you with empathy, without judging or trying to solve everything, are pillars of strength. In difficult times, feeling heard and loved makes a big difference.
What would you say to someone facing a diagnosis? And to a family member or friend?
To someone facing a diagnosis: take it one step at a time, find small things to be grateful for, and allow yourself to feel all your emotions. To family members: be present, listen without trying to "fix" anything, and be a refuge of calm and love.
How did coaching help you in your process?
Coaching gave me tools to manage my emotions, maintain a positive mindset, and act with purpose. It can be key for those facing serious illnesses,helping them focus on what they can control and find strength in their values.
Is your story an example of resilience?
Yes, my process led me to transform a very tough experience into an opportunity for personal growth. I chose to focus on gratitude and how I could contribute value to others by creating a project that connects my story with a broader purpose.
How did you notice the impact of gratitude on your mental health?
Gratitude helped me stay calm, find meaning even in tough times, and focus on the positive. It was a powerful tool to strengthen my emotional resilience and connect with what truly matters.
What motivated you to share it with others?
I am grateful that, before cancer, I had already developed awareness of the importance of caring for our mind, embracing emotions, and tending to the body. This prior work allowed me to face treatment (chemotherapy, mastectomy, radiotherapy) with much inner calm, putting my mind in service of my body.By sharing my learnings on social media, I saw how I could accompany and inspire many women going through similar processes. This led me to create the Gratitude Notebook, a tool to help others transform their experiences as I did.
Is the notebook only for people going through similar processes?
No, it is designed for everyone. It can be useful for anyone who wants to connect with the present, reflect, and train their mind in the positive. I recommend writing down three things you are grateful for each day, creating a transformative habit.
What do you dream of achieving with this initiative and what legacy do you want to share?
With this project, I dream of inspiring people to live with more gratitude and find well-being in their daily lives. My legacy is to show that even in adversity, we can find reasons to be grateful and grow. I have learned that we should not fear death, but rather fear not living life fully. From my experience with cancer, every day has become a gift that I deeply value.
