Isabel

After an irregular Pap smear we quickly learned that I had a hormonally driven cancer. What began as a cervical mass quickly overtook my reproductive system. We began treatment and were extremely hopeful. After some extremely hard months we thought we beat the monster just to learn that it had spread into my breast, chest wall, and lymph nodes. What was supposed to be easily beaten took over my body and now we are battling the cancer itself as well as the damage it is doing to my heart. Lumpectomies, lymph node removals, and now chemo and it’s still growing.

I wish I knew that it’s okay to not take everyone’s advice. It’s okay to value your own opinion and what your body is telling you even if others disagree.

I discovered that I have the power to fake it till I make it. Even when I’m in pain and unwell, I have the power to smile and create memories with my friends and family.

I would advise caretakers to not expect them to always be happy. Sometimes we are told so much “it’s going to be okay”, “be strong”, and what we need to hear is that we have a safe place to land when we are not okay and when we are processing the trauma we are going through.

I can’t say enough good things about support groups. Most oncology groups have them, speaking to others that know what we are going through is so empowering.

Just know that how you feel is valid, how you chose to move through this journey is valid and beauty comes in all shapes, sizes and images. We are not dependent on hair and boobs to have a positive self image.