Thank you for taking the time to read this! I’m grateful to be sharing my cancer journey to offer encouragement and hope for those currently facing any health concerns or caring for someone who is.
My experience with cancer was not solely about battling an illness. It became a profound spiritual awakening. I leaned heavily on my faith and discovered that, even in my darkest moments, I was not alone. Prayer, meditation, and community support served as my foundation. I found strength through vulnerability, and by sharing my story, I have experienced healing while inspiring others along the way. As a two-time breast cancer survivor and caregiver for my mother who is facing stage 4 bile duct cancer, I know that life’s struggles are inevitable.
At 34, I received my first breast cancer diagnosis. I discovered the lump while reading with my oldest son, Rocco. What began as a simple itch led to the realization that something was not right. Despite reassurances from my OB-GYN and an initial misdiagnosis of mastitis, I listened to my intuition and sought a second opinion. That resulted in my diagnosis right before Christmas in 2017. At the time, I was managing life as a mother to Rocco (8), Theodore (4), and Beau (2), while also working part-time as a Parent Advocate for deaf and hard-of-hearing children.
I clearly remember the moment I received the cancer call—it felt as though the world paused. I fell to my knees, struck by humility. Instead of tears, my mind immediately shifted to action, determined to fight for my life. Tears and an array of emotions did come after the initial shock. I questioned how this could have happened. I had always led a healthy lifestyle so my stress levels, exacerbated by care responsibilities for a special-needs child and the toll of an unhealthy marriage, were the only identifiable culprits for what was happening with my body.
During treatment in 2018, the hospital became a second home. The physical pain was challenging, and the inability to be the active mom I wanted to be weighed heavily on me. My treatment journey involved biopsies, a double mastectomy, three reconstruction surgeries, four rounds of chemotherapy, and six consecutive weeks of proton radiation, which left me physically and emotionally transformed.
Receiving my cancer diagnosis was a pivotal moment that compelled me to confront the reality of unhealthy relationships as well as some past traumas. While I was initially focused on survival and treatment, navigating this challenging journey allowed me to gain clarity about my life.
As I faced the possibility of my own mortality, I realized that life is too short to stay compliant. This experience compelled me to confront my feelings, desires, and the partnership I truly sought—one grounded in mutual respect, love, and support.
Amidst chemotherapy and treatment, I found the courage to prioritize my mental and emotional health. I leaned on faith, family, and community. Accepting where I was and relying on therapy to process the past were essential for my healing and growth.
Emerging from this experience, I discovered strength I never knew I had. I focused on building a new life enriched with positivity, healing, and genuine connections. This journey taught me that facing life’s toughest realities can lead to significant transformations, ultimately guiding us toward happiness and fulfillment.
By March 2021, I had completed my treatment, finalized my divorce, purchased my own home and returned to full-time work. I have learned to view suffering as a catalyst for growth and reliance on faith. It is my hope that my story encourages others to face life’s struggles with optimism and to cherish the small moments.
If anyone is struggling or would like to share with me, please do not hesitate to reach out.
Thank you!
