“In life, you can fly or fight. I chose to fight,” Maria ‘Scooby’ Cuschieri shares in comments to LovinMalta, as she spreads positivity after being diagnosed with cancer. Cuschieri is a gay mental health advocate who has battled stigmas her entire life in various facets of her life including adoption, coming out and mental health.

“People know me for my bubbly, positive side. But everyone has their own baggage in life. I want to show people that it’s possible to go through whatever life throws your way,” she said, as she shares details of her new cancer diagnosis which came about a month ago. She feels that by stepping forward and sharing her experiencing she can hopefully motivate others and share in the pain.

Cuschieri shared that she also got bullied in school, particularly about being adopted from Romania when she was five years of age. Bullying continued later on in life when she came out as gay in her adolescence.

“I used to get blamed for a lot for what other students did. I also used to shave my head as soldiers do. Other students would laugh at me. Once, a teacher even said I should be sent to a boys school instead.” 

“I felt my burden was heavy, especially with my parents divorcing at that time,” she lamented. Now, Cuschieri has her own family – partner Tiziana and seven-year-old son, Dan.  “At my lowest point, I realised that I was given a ray of hope – to be of service to my loved ones and community. Then I saw life differently – I started my job as a teacher, focusing on my son and speaking out when I can. Now I know that I feel my best when I feel useful in the world.”

“Now, I’ve got the news that I am diagnosed with cancer. But guess what? I am way too blessed – I have my partner, my son and family supporting me in every way, what can I ask for?” she said.

“Luckily, I have a whole team of support to remind me to carry on fighting for the things that are worth it. I’m truly blessed,” she concluded.

We’re rooting for you!