I want to be upfront that I share things because I've found that the more open I am about life's challenges, the less fear and isolation they seem to carry.
Last week I went in for a routine screening. Yesterday, I got a phone call I honestly wasn't expecting.
Several years ago, I went to the doctor because of some concerning symptoms. At the time, my physician believed I had inflammatory breast cancer. After biopsies and imaging, everyone was surprised to learn that it wasn't inflammatory breast cancer. However, because we investigated those symptoms so thoroughly, doctors found an early abnormal growth that was treated before it could spread or became more serious. For that, I have always been incredibly grateful.
Yesterday's screening showed that the growth is likely returning. I now have an ultrasound, scans, and an appointment to discuss treatment options.
Oddly enough, my very first thought wasn't about treatment. It was, "I have a hair appointment next weekend... I don't want to spend money on my hair if it's just going to fall out." Funny how our minds work in moments like these.
The truth is, I don't know what the outcome will be yet. What I do know is this: I've been through unexpected health challenges before, and I've learned that worrying about what might happen only steals joy from today. So I'm choosing to stay hopeful, take things one appointment at a time, and trust that whatever comes next, I'll face it with faith, strength, and the incredible support of my family and friends. Lars has been nothing short of amazing.
I'm also sharing this for another reason. Most don't know that over the past year I've really struggled with my health. There were days I felt so awful that I finally walked into an urgent care and said, "Someone, please help me." As someone who is used to being capable, and the one who figures things out, that was an incredibly vulnerable place to be. Asking for help didn't come naturally, but it turned out to be exactly what I needed.
That visit set me on a path to finally getting some answers. Between thyroid medication and a few other treatments, I've started feeling like myself again for the first time in a long time. And now... this. Life has a funny way of reminding us that we don't get to control the timing of everything.
But if this past year has taught me anything, it's that our health is worth fighting for, and asking for help isn't a sign of weakness, it's often the first step toward healing.
To my fellow women: if you've been feeling like something isn't right, please don't ignore it. Trust yourself. Ask questions. Get a second opinion if you need one. Advocate for your health. And if you're struggling, know that you are not alone.
If sharing my experience, the doctors I saw, or what finally helped me start feeling better can help someone else, my door is always open.🩷 No one should have to navigate these kinds of health challenges alone.