This year, as one of Lurie Cancer Center’s Faces of Cancer, I was asked to offer some advice to the newly diagnosed. My advice: “Take a breath and remember you are more than your diagnosis.”
I am one of the many faces of cancer.
I am one example that Stage 3 cancer can be overcome.
I am one reminder that your diagnosis doesn’t define you.
I am one story to let you know anything is possible.
I am fortunate to be a two-year cancer survivor.
I am lucky to be able to count by remission in years.
I may be one of the many faces of cancer,
But I hope I also remind you of the possibilities on the other side of a difficult diagnosis.
If you or someone you love was diagnosed with cancer,
Take a deep breath and remember:
You are MORE.
More than a patient.
More than just another statistic.
More people are surviving cancer than ever before.
More advanced treatment options like immunotherapy are helping MORE people reach remission.
You are more than this moment.
You are more resilient than you realize.
This isn’t the final chapter.
There is MORE to your story.
More memories to be made.
More victories and breakthroughs are ahead.
More possibilities.
More HOPE.
This year, I was honored to be able to share my story as one of Lurie Cancer Center’s “Face’s of Cancer.”
We were asked to offer some advice for the newly diagnosed in honor of National Cancer Survivors Day.