While this journey has been treacherous, I can say that I have been recovering so well and feeling inspiration all around us on a daily basis! 🌟

I remember vividly a mix of emotions — not just a gut feeling — when I first received the news on a sunny afternoon: shock, fear, worry, and more. As I began embarking on the daunting steps of biopsy, treatment, and follow-up, I knew that I wasn’t alone. Many patients have traveled similar journeys and experienced better outcomes through modern medicine. 🧩

You, my supportive community, rallied around me through my inner turmoils, offering encouragement every step of the way. Many of you shared your own experience or expertise, giving me the strength to keep going — even during the toughest and darkest moments. 🌻

The past year has been full of ups and downs, but I’m proud to have stayed strong and purposeful. I started to smell the roses and the coffee, appreciated the little things often taken for granted, and cherished every moment with you all. A newfound sense of purpose, determination, and perseverance inspired many of my actions in both face-to-face and virtual interactions with many of you here! 🪁

Looking back, I am so grateful for the early diagnoses I received, the cutting-edge therapies I underwent, and the growth I experienced. Cancer may be a part of many of our loved ones’ lives, but it doesn’t define us — we are fighters, survivors, researchers, and healers. 🤲🏼

As I celebrate this milestone with gratitude and joy, I look forward to what the future holds and to living life to the fullest. 🌺