Cancer.
It’s a six-letter word that changes your life, forever.
In October of 2023, I received confirmation of that life-changing word: Stage four colon cancer at 41 years old. A diagnosis I never imagined would be part of my story. After losing my parents and many friends to cancer, the news was devastating.
I had so many questions — as a wife, as a mom, as a sister, daughter-in-law, granddaughter, friend… How are we going to do this? How will we afford it? Why? I don’t want to burden anyone. I’m a fixer and a peacemaker. I take care of everyone else, just like wives and mamas do.
But this was something I couldn’t fix.
After many weeks of tears and fear, I knew I had to get up and fight. To the best of my ability, I turned it over to the One who is in control, and learned to lean on my faith. I believe God places people in our lives to carry us when we can’t carry ourselves. I believe in the power of prayer. I believe He can turn a mess into a message, and I believe I will continue to be a walking testimony through this journey.
When I received the email that I had been nominated to be a Woman in Blue, I was overwhelmed with emotion and pride. It took me a bit to gather myself, but I knew this was something I was called to do and it is such an honor!
If sharing my story gives one person hope…
If it reminds one person to schedule their screening…
If it helps one family feel supported…Then it is worth it — and that is exactly what I hope to do.
During March, I will wear blue. I will raise awareness. And I will ask you to join me in supporting the Cancer Wellness Foundation as we stand together with those fighting colon cancer and other cancers right here at home.
I am honored to serve as a Woman in Blue — and to be a walking testimony of faith, strength, and community. We certainly do not choose this journey, but together, we can choose how we fight it; and together, we can make a difference.