yesterday marked nine years since my diagnosis of stage four lung cancer. nine years of fighting a battle the doctors said i couldn’t win. but i fight. every day, i wake up and fight. this has been my life for the past nine years.
it’s not just lung cancer. though i haven’t received treatment for that since 2019, i was diagnosed with mantle cell lymphoma in 2020. sometimes, life throws you unexpected challenges. but life goes on.
i feel blessed. i am about to self-publish my first book—a collection of poems and stories about faith. this book exists because of faith; without it, i wouldn’t be here writing this. navigating life’s valleys requires all the faith you can muster.
faith has been my anchor through countless hospital visits, sleepless nights, and moments of despair. it has given me the strength to face each new day, no matter how daunting. i’ve learned that every breath is a gift, and every moment is an opportunity to find beauty and meaning, even in the midst of pain.
this journey has taught me to cherish the small victories and to celebrate resilience. i’ve discovered a passion for writing i never knew i had. through my poems, i’ve found a way to express my deepest fears, hopes, and gratitude. it’s been a therapeutic outlet, helping me process the rollercoaster of emotions that come with living with cancer.
sharing my story and my poetry is my way of giving back. i hope to inspire others who are facing their own battles to hold onto hope and to find strength in their faith. if my words can bring comfort or encouragement to even one person, i will have made a difference.
so, here i am, about to publish a book of poems. it’s a milestone i never imagined i would reach, and it’s a testament to the power of faith and perseverance.
peace and blessings!
