At the end of May 2023, I went for my routine, yearly check-up and a few weeks later I got a phone call to come back. To my surprise, I was told that they found cancerous cells and I underwent my first procedure. In July, I went for my 4 week post-op, thinking all would be okay. At that appointment, I learned that there was much more adenocarcinoma than originally thought and the first procedure wasn't enough. At this time, I was connected with an incredible team of doctors at Rush. In October, I underwent a full hysterectomy, salpingectomy, cystoscopy and TVT. I have been incredibly fortunate that the adenocarcinoma was found in a place that could easily be removed and does not affect my quality of life or how my body functions. My oncology team was confident during the surgery that they have been able to remove everything and fully clear my margins and my subsequent appointments have proven that to be true! In January, I had my final surgery to remove my tonsils due to a tumor growing on my left tonsil. While it was still pre-cancerous, it had to go! Did you know that cervical cancer and tonsil cancer are linked? Now you do!
For many years, my family has been connected to St. Baldrick's in a variety of ways. However, this year, it all hits differently. While I have been incredibly lucky that my experience hasn't been nearly as rough as so many, I now have a completely different viewpoint. I know how it feels to be told, "You have cancer." I know how it feels to tell people I love and the nerves that come with walking into a cancer center as a patient. I share all of this to say that, while all of that was tough, I can't imagine being a child and going through this. I can't image being a parent of a child going through this. It is all unfair.
And while my journey isn't over yet, I figured that I may as well turn lemons into lemonade. If I have to have this small detour on my life path, I may as well raise some money! So please consider donating to my fundraiser!
I will be BRAVING THE SHAVE on March 5, 2024 at Smokey Jo's Restaurant following a Guest Bartending shift. All of the tips I earn in those 2 hours will go towards my fundraising goal and at the end of my shift, I will be shaving my head on stage at Smokey Jo's!
I would be eternally grateful if you would consider giving. Every little bit helps and it all goes towards helping to conquer kids' cancer!
Join us to have some fun – and be a hero for kids with cancer!
Children, teens and even infants are diagnosed with cancer every day, but donations are drastically down for research to find cures. We can change that – and save lives!
Our event will speed the search for cures, supporting the largest charity funder of childhood cancer research grants. Research is hope, and you can give kids that hope.
Sign up to shave your head or to raise money another way. Can’t join us? Please make a generous donation to give kids the long, healthy lives they deserve.
