In 2009, I was diagnosed with Stage 4 reproductive cancer that started in my Fallopian Tube and spread to my left lung. It was a genetic based cancer (BRCA 2), but I was the first one in my family to show symptoms of the disease. There is no cure for BRCA 2 cancer, but a variety of treatments have kept me alive for the past 16 years. The cancer has returned 3 times. The last round of chemo was not effective, so I had radiation, which has kept me stable for the last 2 ½ years.
My oncologist encouraged me to travel and find some good distractions. As a result, I have traveled the world with my now twenty-five-year-old daughter and retired from a full career as a high school teacher of dance, leadership and biology. I also got a dog that I trained to qualify as a companion animal for myself and the students I was teaching. I became a Voice of Hope for the American Cancer Society, which allowed me to share my story at related events over the years. Sharing my story allows me to do the most important thing of all. Bring hope to others that may not be feeling hopeful. I plan to participate for thirteen more.
I am glad to say that I am a different person today from the one I was before my cancer diagnosis. And I mean that in a very good way. I can say that in many ways cancer has made me a better person, better parent, better teacher, better family member and a better friend. To say I am grateful is a big understatement. I have moved to the beach, rescued my second dog, and became an avid reader and gardener. My blessings are a gift every day that I am here. Peace.