“11 years Livin”

       Today, July 3rd, 2023, Eleven years ago, I was diagnosed with Poorly Differentiated Metastatic Tall Cell Variant Papillary Thyroid Cancer. I have never in a million years thought I would even make it past my 30th Birthday. But I DID IT! I got through every recurrence, radiation treatment, and way too many side effects from treatment that still affect me today. Every day there is a hurdle; somehow, I pull through it. Then onto the next load, etc. The one thing that affects me the most is, by far, my legs having peripheral neuropathy and nerve damage in my legs, and memory issues.

I also can't forget pure exhaustion. People don't realize the side effects of cancer treatments. Yet alone, living life with cancer is not easy. Eleven years ago, I had a complete thyroidectomy, which means I no longer have my Thyroid. Every day, for the rest of my life, I have to take Levothyroxine Intramuscular Injections to stay alive. These vials are so expensive just to stay alive. The stress of not having Thyroid Medication during Covid 19 put a strain on me as well. Every month when I refill my medication, there are times the pharmacy does NOT have the full 30 days. Every month is different, and I can do nothing about it other than stress. It’s scary. Will I have my meds today? It sure is a crappy situation to deal with ever since Covid 19. Far too many supply factories have shut down because of Covid 19. The stress of just getting my 30-day supply is exhausting to me. Once I have my medication, I can breathe until next month. 

No matter what gets thrown into my face, unexpected hospital trips, three strokes, this and that. I get through it like a true badass. I  pull through and keep moving until the next problem appears. People always tell me, “ I don't know how you do it.” I don't know how you have the strength to carry on.” I just DO. You keep fighting, and you NEVER EVER GIVE UP. I want to watch my beautiful girl grow up and enjoy a wonderful life together forever. I fight to protect my two beautiful nieces and two handsome nephews growing up. I honestly truly don't even know how I do it most days. I am so tired. I want a break. I genuinely believe my four-year-old Dog Dory has saved me in many ways these past four incredible years with her. She gives me strength and hopes Just to Keep Swimming every single day. 

No matter how exhausted I am from this life, I will NEVER give up. You only get one life. I want to LIVE it the best way possible. I am beyond grateful to the entire AYA ( Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Community) for welcoming me from day one. Every organization asked me to share my story. Your continued incredible friendships, support, and all the love I get from my followers mean more than anything to me. Documenting my life is hard for me, but it helps me cope, and if I can help just ONE person fight for their life, get a second opinion, and make sure that their voices are heard, then that's all that matters to me. Helping others, supporting so many of my followers who reach out to me, and connecting with so many of you daily. These beautiful friendships. I will forever be grateful for it. 

This summer will be the best summer ever while my cancer center is watching and waiting during this 4th recurrence. I’ll take it! Time to enjoy life and live life to the fullest. We only get one life, and now it is time to get busy livin'. That's what it is all about. Take those mini vacations, go to the beach, LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE, and do it well and FORGET all the haters who say, “We shouldn't be doing this or that.” LIVE your life the way you want!

I will always support every one of you. I will always be grateful for all the beautiful friendships throughout all these years.

I cannot forget my dear friends who passed away this year alone. I love you girls, and I am always thinking of you. I miss you dearly. Your friendships meant the world to me and always will. I will remember you forever. 

Dear Cancer, You’re a damn beast. You are the evil of all evil. You need to rot and die forever. I will not let you tear me down because I am still here kicking ass for 11 years!!!!

I don't want any pity. These eleven years have been the most challenging time of my life. They have proven to me and everyone around me that I am a warrior. I have so much strength. I am proud of myself and who I am. I will continue to be powerful no matter what the world puts me through... 

Cheers to 11 more years!!

Thank you all for your continued love and support.

🤟🏻D