Cancer really sucks and it never even occured to me that I could develop it as an otherwise "healthy" young(ish) adult.. In December, I was diagnosed with primary Mediastinal large B-cell lymphoma, a fast-growing but highly treatable cancer. My treatment involved six intense rounds of inpatient chemotherapy, each lasting five days (120 hours) and administered every three weeks.

The past few months have been a testament to human resilience and a crash course in healthcare navigation. I’ve faced the unexpected challenges of failed PICC lines, uncomfortable IVs, and the shocking discovery of blood clots that left my arm swollen and necessitated emergency procedures. The "hit-by-a-bus" feeling, constant fatigue, and even the mental strain of hospital stays and insurance battles became my reality. There have been moments of frustration, like delays at the hospital and dealing with low blood counts that pushed my heart rate up.

Despite this, I am incredibly fortunate. My amazing partner, Vance, has been my steadfast support.  My greyhounds, Finch and Zeb are constant sources of emotional support. My parents, aunts, and friends who stepped in to help with everything, including putting up with my detailed "Wife Swap" style manual for dog care! Even with increasing chemo dosages—reaching level 5, which my doctors say is the highest dosage they've ever given anyone—my body showed tolerance. My recent PET scan confirmed that my tumor has significantly shrunk from 11cm to being imperceptible, meaning I've achieved the first step in remission! The second is just the cancer staying gone for 5 years. I have another scan soon to ensure the cancer is still gone.

I finished up treatment towards the beginning of april and my focus is shifting from survival to living according to my values. I'm so excited to participate in a True North Trek this summer. True North Treks offers wilderness expeditions specifically for young adults diagnosed with cancer. After months of medical environments, the thought of immersing myself in nature, challenging myself physically, and connecting with a community that understands this unique journey deeply resonates with me.

Your donation helps provide continued opportunities for these healing experiences. True North Treks relies on support from individuals to provide these invaluable adventures. By contributing to my fundraiser, you're directly helping to make these transformative wilderness adventures accessible to young cancer survivors, offering a chance to reconnect, rebuild, and discover strength in the outdoors.

Please consider donating to help me reach my fundraising goal. Your generosity will make a tangible difference in my post-treatment journey and support the vital work of True North Treks. Thank you for your kindness and support.