Dear Cancer, You Failed

Dear Stage 2 Invasive Ductal Carcinoma,

We met in 2020 during a pandemic. So, I guess you wanted to be memorable. I am not sure what else your agenda was, but If it was to defeat me, I am sorry that you failed at that mission. If it was to turn my life into purpose, I thank you for coming into my life but leaving when I found my voice. To defeat you was difficult, but I was prepared in hindsight. Maybe my spirituality, family support, former athleticism, and my knowledge of healthcare put me at an advantage to defeat you. You messed with the wrong person. I am petite, but I come with some force. I get what I want, and this time was no different. I wanted to be healed, whole, and restored from cancer and I am thankful that I can say that I am that today.

Cancer, please stay away from me in the future. I have defeated you once and I expect you to never be a part of my life again. I will continue to help advocate for other young minority communities of women with cancer so that we can all continue to defeat you. You will not continue to destroy our lives no matter how hard you try. We will arm ourselves with all the resources we need to prevent cancers like you. We will make sure our voices are heard and that changes are made for equitable treatment to improve quality of life and reduce mortality rates. Lastly, Cancer, I will say I saw a light at the end of my dark tunnel, and I will keep going in support of other patients with cancer to also see and shine their light.

Sincerely,

MC

This article was featured in the 2022 Dear Cancer issue of Elephants and Tea Magazine! Click here to read our magazine issues.