Why a Starfish?

So why did I pick a Starfish to use in my pen name?  Here’s the story……

When I arrived at the Cancer Treatment Centers of America – Philadelphia location on January 8, 2018 for my three day prospective patient orientation, I was given a name badge to wear during my stay.  All of the cancer patients had a starfish pin on theirs. Caregivers and family members did not.  It was a way for everyone to spot new potential patients easily.

I wasn’t really sure why they used a starfish symbol, so like we do with almost everything these days……I Googled starfish symbolism, and I was intrigued with what I saw on the first page that came up! http://www.whats-your-sign.com/symbolic-starfish-meaning.html

In Christian symbolism the starfish represents the Virgin Mary (Stella Maris which means Star of the Sea) who lovingly creates safe travel over troubled waters and is also seen as an emblem of salvation during trying times.

The website also had a list of other symbolic meanings……which I REALLY thought sounded a lot like me! 🙂

• Strong
• Patient
• Ancient
• Magical
• Healing
• Sensitive
• Longevity
• Renewing
• Perceptive
• Mysterious
• Resourceful

Plus, did you know that a starfish can regrow its arm if it happens to get cut off? How cool is that!  I’d like to think that I can tackle this disease and renew myself …….just like a starfish.

So, I took the name when I decided to start a blog and the rest is history! Suzie Starfish was born.