I am grateful that I have been a survivor for 12 years now. When I was diagnosed, I was a young mother to a three year old and a newborn, both girls. All I ever wanted to do was raise my children and be a great wife to my husband. I remember my doctors told me that the cancer was aggressive, but I told them, “I’m aggressive!” From that day forward, I conquered chemo, a double mastectomy, radiation, more chemo, and reconstruction surgery, along with supporting my husband through starting his business, and mothering my children-now teens- with an attitude of confidence, boldness, joy, and thankfulness.
During my journey, I kept my optimism by creating small goals that I wanted to see for my children. At first, it was a goal to survive and watch my oldest start kindergarten. And my next goal was to watch my youngest start walking and talking. I survived long enough to see that, and nurture many more growth experiences! Not only did they start school, and excel in what they are doing as unique and amazing individuals, my husband’s business began to thrive, and we were able to make our dreams come true as a family. I look back on that time, and those challenges to picture a bright future, and I’m so glad I had my faith to hold on to. I believed I would reach those milestones, even when it hurt, even when statistics told me differently, even when I was tempted to give up hope.
From my experience, I have been able to reach out to spread hope with other women, especially young mothers, who find themselves terrified of a diagnosis and scary future. I know it is a divine gift to be able to help others through what I have been through, and to encourage them along the way with practical and spiritual advice. I would have never met some amazing people, and have the chance to love them through their journey if I hadn’t gone through the journey myself. I thank God every day that I’m still around to speak life and encouragement to my beautiful daughters, my husband, and all the survivors I know.
