FROM CANCER DIAGNOSIS TO SURVIVOR (AND REPEAT) TO THRIVER

My cancer story begins on February 11, 2009 when I was diagnosed with Stage III breast cancer, which I can't believe will be 9 years in February! It is a story that I wish no one had to write! I had surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and reconstruction. It seemed like doctor's appointments and tests were my new normal! I was fortunate to have support from all areas of my life-my faith, my family, my friends, and at my school.

I finally finished all my treatments and surgeries in 2014, and was happy that my appointments were finally getting further apart. Things were beginning to feel a little more normal. However, I don't think it ever goes back to a “before” cancer normal. I finally felt like I was a “Survivor!” However, then another cancer diagnosis came in 2016 when I was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma which meant another round of chemotherapy and two years of Rituxan. I have been blessed with an amazing group. The “Young Survivors' Group” friends were a blessing to help me get through another diagnosis! I always look forward to the meetings and speakers and seeing my friends who understand what I am going through. I also LOVE participating in the Pink Ribbon Run! I am choosing to be a “Thriver!” I refuse to let cancer “run” my life