I am dying of brain cancer. The kindness of Swifties changed my heart forever
Motherhood09.12.2024
Two years ago, I sat my daughter down to give her devastating news: I had brain cancer, and my life would be cut short.
We had to move cities to be closer to family. Her entire world was instantly changed and her childhood innocence lost. She had to leave all her friends and everything she knew and watch me go through surgery, treatment, and then recurrence.
We have had so many serious conversations in the very same spot, that it was so great to finally be delivering some good news.
In fact, this might have been the best news her 11-year-old ears have ever heard: “It’s a big surprise just for you. A bunch of people made this happen for us and it really touched mommy’s heart, and I know it will touch your heart too,” I said, as we were sitting in the car.
I went on to tell her that her dream of going to the Taylor Swift concert was actually coming true, thanks to the kindness of others, who had gifted us two tickets to night four of The Eras Tour in Toronto.
My daughter’s reaction changed my heart forever.
View this post on Instagram
She cried tears of complete joy and appreciation, and it reminded me of a time in our lives before cancer changed everything for my family. It showed me what gratitude really looks like, and in that moment, I felt it so deeply for the people that had made this happen for my Scarlett and I.
For me, the definition of “Swifties” are the people that gave this moment in time to my daughter and to myself. I captured it on video, and I still can’t watch it without crying, seeing her precious face so happy that she was moved to tears.
The big night
It is hard to fully explain what it is like to be in a building with 50,000 Taylor Swift fans.
It is probably a little different for everyone, but from a mother-daughter perspective, this is what we experienced.
Even as we approached the venue, the energy was evident. People started complimenting my daughter — not only how beautiful she was, but that she was “rockin’ it” and that they loved the chosen era for her dress.
We felt totally open to express our compliments in return to everyone around us. People were smiling at each other and were kind and respectful. Mothers and daughters were treated like queens. As a mom I felt so loved and admired in that venue.
It felt as though any outfit was acceptable and no one was being shamed for it; in fact, people were being given a shout-out by strangers for their bravery in showing up, loving themselves, and wearing what made them feel beautiful and strong.
We walked around taking in all the positive vibes, sharing friendship bracelets, and we even ate a glitter pretzel.
Taylor then put on the most amazing show, starting with Gracie Abrams. It is hard to describe — we never sat down, we sang every word, the visuals were unbelievable. The wrist bands, her beautiful voice, her dancers, everything was as everyone describes it: Magical. This is not a concert review, but if it was, it would read: “Taylor Swift is off the charts and not of this earth.”
The big picture
Once you know this type of kindness, inclusivity, and positivity is possible in a building with 50,000 people, you start to believe it could be possible everywhere.
It was so powerful to be there with my daughter and have her witness that and experience it.
The Eras Tour is not just about empowering women — it is so much more than that. It is about humans lifting other humans up; it is about seeing each other in our humanity. It is about sharing something special with my daughter that I know she will never forget for the rest of her life. It is knowing that there is enough kindness in the world for my children who will have to navigate their lives without me.
This night reassured me that there is enough good in the world to protect them when I’m gone.
Taylor Swift said it best herself: “No matter what happens in life, be good to people. Being good to people is a wonderful legacy to leave behind.”
Taylor, I think you’ve set the example and led the way balancing power and humility. The tour might be coming to a close, but the Swifties will keep spreading kindness always — we got you girl.
