Blogs
Cancer And The Dance With Death
In one of my favorite movies featuring Brad Pitt, the actor plays the role of Death, who comes to earth in human form.
I Have Lynch Syndrome —The Evolution From Patient To Advocate
I embarked on my journey as a patient advocate for individuals with hereditary cancer syndromes after experiencing the underestimated consequences of prophylactic measures meant to prevent gynecological cancers.
Bras Don’t Have to Be Burdensome, They Can Be Brawesome!
A local art exhibit allowed expressive creativity on a unique canvas to raise breast cancer awareness.
Collaborative Cancer Care
I’ve been having a wonderful (well…maybe challenging is the right word) growing season this past year, learning how to be a better collaborator.
Scars Fade, But Memories Don’t
Each October, we’re surrounded by the color pink as breast cancer awareness month gets into full swing. It can be a challenging time for many, but also a time of celebration.
Breast Cancer: Two Words That Mean A Lot
When mentioning “breast cancer” in a story about my college experience is not allowed, I considered alternatives to the medical term that describes my situation best.
Cancer Is Just Not Fair
I knew virtually nothing about cancer until I became a caregiver for my aunt Carolyn, who died of colorectal cancer in 2000.
I Hate Cancer!
Battling the unforgiving foe: Cancer.
Autumn and Other Transitions
Summer came to an end after my cancer diagnosis.
Cancer Conversation
Back 50 years or so ago, people didn’t discuss cancer freely. Today, things have changed.
Living With My Stage 4 Hourglass Timer
This is how I accepted that I am running out of time and options.
Dealing with Survivor’s Guilt
The very first blog I ever wrote for CURE asked the question, “Why me?”
Don't Always Blame The Cancer
Trust me, I made the mistake of blaming every symptom on my cancer.
October: A Mixed Bag of Both Tricks and Treats During Cancer Survivorship
October brings many mixed emotions to mind as a breast cancer survivor.
The Time I Almost Lost Hope
The highs, lows and a courageous decision that changed everything.
A Life Well Lived?
Living with stage 4 cancer begs reflection. Have I lived my life with purpose? How will I be remembered? Did I do all I wanted to do?
Saying Goodbye to Caring Cancer Health Care Providers
Rachelle’s unexpected departure reminded me I need to express my appreciation to these special, beloved providers now.
October No. 9 With Metastatic Breast Cancer
Nine years of Pinktober while living with metastatic breast cancer.
The Language of Cancer and Drawing a Picture
With National Hereditary Cancer Week and National Previvor Day coming up at the end of the month, I sat down to write something about cancer advocacy and being the parent of a previvor.
What I Would Tell My Newly Diagnosed Self
If I could turn back time and speak to my newly diagnosed self, here's what I'd say!
Managing Stress After Cancer
After cancer and chemo, I tell myself all the time that nothing matters more than your health.
Musing About My Genetic Glitch
Although I know I am not a scientist, and understand my cancer may take a lifetime, I contemplate why I ended up with too many copies of the HER2 gene.
The Unpredictable Aftereffects of Cancer
So many aftereffects occurred with my two cancers.
Radiation Tattoos
I didn't have a choice but to get tattoos for my radiation.
From Devastating Setback in Treatment to Blessing
“And… ok, that’s enough!” That was my brain’s reaction after the oncologist broke the news.
My Cancer Playlist
I don’t know about you, but music moves me. Literally. It makes me move.
Making Choices When Hearing a Cancer Diagnosis
Before my biopsy, the doctor assured me it was nothing. He said he was just doing this to prove it to me. We definitely didn’t expect what followed next.
Rediscovering Myself After Cancer
After getting over the shock of being diagnosed with a rare cancer, I could only think about returning to my “normal” self, but I later discovered that the normal I was trying to return to would change.
Opening The Door on Rapid Autopsy After Cancer
I like to think that I always checked off the “be an organ donor” box on my driver’s license forms, but of course that just may be the way I remember it.
My Summer While Navigating Cancer
I always enjoyed writing about my summers, but this is what I would write today.