October 14th, 2010, I was diagnosed with stage 2b Hodgkins Lymphoma. I had 1 large tumor the size of an IPhone on my lung, and 2 tumors in my neck. I was 22 years old.
Over the course of the winter, I went through 8 rounds of very aggressive chemotherapy, lost my hair, but I didn't lose my will to keep fighting.
In March 2011, I received good news that my cancer was in remission and in May that same year, I did 18 rounds of radiation therapy, just to ensure the cancer wouldn't come back.
I was able to learn that through our trials, we learn so much. Dealing with a life threatening illness at such a young age put so much in perspective for me. I was able to grow closer to God and Jesus Christ, I know that it was through them, the power of faith, and modern medicine that I was healed.
In Decemeber of this past year, 2011, while I was in surgery having a biopsy done in my chest, the doctor found a tumor the size of a tennis ball. In order to remove it, the doctor had to cut through the sternum and then seal it shut with metal wiring. Thankfully, the tumor was benign. This experience brought my much closer to my family, my friends, and my God.
I am thankful for the challenging experiences my family, friends and I had to go through. It has made me into who I am today. I love life, I love God, I love my family and friends.
