Melissa

My heart leaps with joy when I’m being creative.

Creativity is my heart’s language.

Tell us a little about yourself.

Hi! I’m Melissa — 26 years old and a student in graphic design. I live in the Netherlands, where tulips are our national symbol and sparkle my soul. Creativity is my heart’s language; when I’m designing, painting, or just putting ideas into color and form, I feel alive. Creating art is my way of making sense of the world.

What diagnosis did you face?

Last year, I was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer with metastasis in my lymph nodes. Cancer felt surreal, like something you hear about but never really think will happen to you, especially not at 26. I went through 20 weeks of chemotherapy, followed by a breast-conserving surgery, and then 20 rounds of radiation.

Cancer taught me that it’s okay to take risks.

What is your definition of joy?

Joy, to me, is a combination of inner peace and those little butterflies in your stomach — like a spark that keeps you going. It’s a magical feeling that’s always there if you take the time to see it. Like bees visiting flowers, the color of the leaves, a song on the radio, etc.

Did something changed you since your diagnosis?

Facing cancer made me acutely aware that life isn’t infinite. I’m less afraid of failure, more open to taking chances, and I embrace new experiences—even if they don’t go as planned. Every day now feels like a new page. Cancer taught me that it’s okay to take risks and to live without regret, because every “tomorrow” is a new opportunity to try again.

What’s your design about?

I designed a print with of two koi fish. In Japanese culture, these beautiful fish represent strength and perseverance. In fact, these fish can reach the top of a waterfall by swimming upstream. I hope that all people feel this strength while wearing them.

You don’t have control over the situation, but you can try to celebrate small victories and moments.

What does cancer mean to you?

Cancer was an unexpected visitor who turned my world upside down. But I learned that perspective gave me space to grow in ways I never expected. As strange as it sounds, this experience was both a curse and a blessing.

What would you like to pass on to your peers?

Take everything one step at a time. You don’t have control over the situation, but you can try to celebrate small victories and moments. I found joy in documenting these moments to look back on later.