Survivorship

The Unseen Battle of Life After Treatment

After being diagnosed with breast cancer at 33 last year—and completing active treatment (chemo, surgery, radiation) a few months ago, with one more surgery still ahead—I’ve found myself stepping into survivorship.

Erection Protection: The Sexy Side of Heart-Healthy Habits

“You’re too young to be worrying about your heart health!” Hmmm . . . where have I heard that sentiment before? I don’t know about you, but as a young adult (YA) cancer survivor, I’m highly skeptical of anyone who tells me that I’m “too young” to worry about anything related to my health. 

The Aftermath: Nobody Told Me This Part Would Hurt Too

“Well, good news is you don’t have COVID; bad news is, it looks like you have lymphoma – so we’re going to have to admit you.” I was 23 years old, lying in my local ER department, fighting to breathe, in November of 2020 when the ER nurse told me this.

I Am Not a Cancer Story

When I was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma almost ten years ago, I wasn’t surprised. You see, the film adaptation of The Fault in Our Stars was released a few months prior.

Chemo Bath

I’ve never been the biggest fan of baths. Ever since cancer attacked my body, showers have also been annoying. Probably the daily ear infection due to my extra ear hairs (thanks Panitumumab).

The Waiting Room

I sit here in the hospital waiting room, pondering platitudes, since I have nothing better to do. Perhaps the best way to become friends with time is to decide it doesn’t exist.

My Own Worst Enemy

Dear Cancer,

I’ll never forget the day we met. We were introduced haphazardly by the radiologist who read my CT scan results, just minutes after I left my appointment.

What the Fire Left Behind

You arrived like smoke under the door.

At first, I didn’t notice.

Just the soft shift in light,

the sudden weight in my chest.

Survivorship Songs

I do not know about you, but music has helped me through some of the best and worst parts of my life. Take cancer, for example. When asked what my fight or survivor song is, I say, “Sorry Not Sorry” by Demi Lovato.

Dear Cancer, You Were Never the Ending

You didn’t just show up—you broke in.
You didn’t knock; you kicked the door in, tossed your shoes on my clean floor, and made yourself comfortable in places you were never invited.