It’s been almost four years since I was diagnosed with ocular melanoma, a rare cancer that affects about 6 in every million people. In some ways, it still feels surreal that this is my life. In others ways, it has become my “new normal” with frequent appointments, surveillance scans, and eye injections. One metastatic scare across the way that thankfully turned out to be benign, ongoing difficult decisions about how to treat my radiation retinopathy given my age with plenty of strong and differing opinions from many ocular oncologists, and even non-cancer related issues in my “good eye” that now has me confused on which eye has it worse!  In this short time, I’ve also unfortunately known far too many people who have passed away from this cancer from metastatic disease. Because of that, I feel an overwhelmed sense of gratitude that I am here, currently NED (no evidence of disease) and hope and pray that continues to be my reality. I always say that I will take losing vision in my left eye over metastatic spread. If that’s the worst that comes of this, then I consider myself incredibly lucky.

The word “cancer” used to just have a negative connotation in my mind - fear of metastatic spread, the uncertainty of when I’ll lose my vision in my left eye, etc. While those fears still exist, the meaning of that word has expanded in a way. I now also think of the unexpected, unique opportunities, connections, and experience it has brought into my life. I’ve attended two True North Trek retreats (a non profit organization that supports young adults/caregivers who have been affected by cancer and provide free wilderness treks), been honored at the Melanoma Research Foundation annual gala with the Courage Award, met incredible advocates, researchers, doctors, and patients, and has surreal joyful moments of meeting some of my Bravo reality tv star icons (and even getting one of their phone numbers :P).

I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to attend a third True North Trek (TNT) trek this August. I cherish TNT and their commitment to focusing on young adults with cancer - a population that is often overlooked in cancer spaces. Young adults with cancer are more likely to be misdiagnosed, experience delays in diagnosis, be underrepresented in clinical trials, and have fewer tailored support resources. Attending my first 2 TNT treks was truly life-changing. The impact it had on me is hard to put into words. I formed lifelong friendships, discovered a deep appreciation for nature, and experienced/connected with mindfulness in whole new way.

Having personally witnessed how fragile life can be, I feel even more motivated to embrace adventure, connection, and meaning wherever I can find it. I’m forever thankful to TNT and the support they provide to young adult cancer survivors. Because of that, I am fundraising with a goal of at least $1,200 which would go toward funding retreats/treks for other young adult cancer survivors. If you’re able to donate, I would be so deeply grateful. And if donating isn’t possible, sharing this fundraiser would mea just as much to me. Thank you!