Dear Cancer | National Cancer Survivors Day 2017

Dear Cancer,

In 2008, you reared your ugly head. I always knew you would. Eventually. At 28 it was daunting to hear. I went from a wife and mom just living her life, to being scared and constantly plastering fake smiles to my face.

Eventually, you just became the norm. I lived life among the doctor’s appointment, tests and visits with the vampires. I even smiled, for real.

Then, you decided to try and beat me. You took my energy and normal functioning. I was no longer capable of living a normal life and I wasn’t going to stand for that. It was time to send you packing.

In 2014, I became the bionic woman in anticipation for chemo. I was scared. Again. But determined to win.

And win I did. You put up a good fight. Fighting you gave me 25 extra pounds, extreme back spasms, GI distress and allergic reactions. It also gave me a stronger faith, both in God and myself. I never doubted that I was strong, only I didn’t know just how strong I was.

Even now, 2.5 years later as I sit here waiting on tests to see if you are rearing your ugly head again, I am okay. Life after you has been amazing and if you have decided to come back, I will beat you. Again.

You will NOT win. My spirit is stronger than you.