Survived 2 cancers and diagnosed with another one in COVID - Stephanie S.
Day I found out I have cancer
I am a 56 year old female. This is my 3rd cancer diagnosis since my fist at age 25 (all 3 have been different cancers). I have been more or less battling different cancers for more than half of my life.
I was diagnosed with Essential Thrombocythemia in November 2020. I am still in shock and have days of unbelievable terror. I am a PTSD survivor as well and have had difficulty coping.
Diagnosis with the Third Cancer - Essential Thrombocythemia
Essential Thrombocythemia has no cure & no remission. It is a life sentence so to speak. It is possible to live a long life, it is with chemotherapy as my BFF. I have been on chemotherapy with this diagnosis since November 2020.
It isn't easy.
It's not fun.
The medication is doing its job.
I do what I have to do.
I have a tremendous tribe of loved ones, family & friends that make me feel whole. My team of physicians is incredible. I am blessed and truly grateful for my life. Having cancer at any time in one's lifetime is extremely difficult. Add a global pandemic and it changes everything.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is very difficult. I am exhausting all the time. Can't eat certain foods. Have nausea, ringing in my ears and more.
For me, the exhaustion is the most difficult.Â
Struggle With Chemo
I am in counseling. I had to resume PTSD counseling as well. I feel strongly about many topics regarding cancer. One is reactions. I have learned that some people just do not know what to say. They say nothing. They see you coming and turn the other way. That is gut wrenching to an individual battling illness. I have learned it is better to say look,
"I don't know what to say to you but saying nothing just doesn't seem right. I want you to know I am here for you, even when I don't know what to say or do for you"
Something That Can Help Other Cancer Patients
The American Cancer Society has been phenomenal. The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society has also been a gigantic blessing to me.
Ask questions.
Don't be afraid to say, hey, wait, is this right for me?! Medications, conversations anything. Don't ever be afraid to use your voice!
My Family
Thank God I have an amazing tribe. I am truly blessed. My family and friends have had a very difficult time understanding how I could have gotten cancer, AGAIN! My faith in God and his son, my Lord, and savior Jesus Christ, get me through the darkest days. I am blessed to be alive. I don't want to waste one day.
For now, I pray I stay well. I pray to one day be able to do the things I love. I pray to be able to give back to the community that has supported me through this unbelievable journey. God Speed.
1 comment
I am so sorry that cancer has picked on you that many times , and God has you in his hands and your still here because he’s not through with you , you still have something to give or do , and my prayers are for you and your loved one , Lord Jesus please touch this lady and let her be healed in Jesus name and for your glory , amen
