A Day in the Life of a 22-Year Breast Cancer Survivor

Each morning, I wake up and I’m reminded just how precious life is; I have a sense of gratitude that’s hard to put into words. It’s been twenty-two years since I heard the words “You have breast cancer,” and not a single day has gone by that I haven’t felt the weight and the blessing of survivorship. My life today looks nothing like it did before my diagnosis. Back then, I was moving through the motions, not truly living. Cancer was my wake-up call, and in the years since, I’ve made a conscious decision to treat myself and my body like royalty. Every choice I make is a gift to myself, a way to honor the journey I’ve been on and the life I get to keep living.

My mornings are sacred. I start each day with gratitude, taking a few moments to breathe deeply and appreciate the chance to begin again. I make it a priority to nourish my body with healthy foods, focusing on what will make me feel strong and energized. Movement is nonnegotiable, whether it’s a brisk walk, a workout, or a yoga session. I cherish the ability to move freely and with purpose. These rituals aren’t just routines; they’re celebrations of what my body has overcome and what it continues to do for me.

One of my greatest joys is sharing this wellness journey with my son. We’ve created a special bond around health and self-care, finding ways to move, cook, and even relax. From preparing nourishing meals to going for hikes or simply talking about health, these moments are more than just daily activities; they’re reminders of why I fought so hard to survive. Watching my son embrace wellness alongside me is a gift I never expected but treasure deeply. Together, we are building habits that will hopefully last him a lifetime, and I couldn’t be prouder.

Of course, survivorship comes with its shadows. Each year, when it’s time for my mammogram, I feel a familiar nervousness creep in. The anxiety never fully disappears, and I don’t expect it to. But I face it with courage, bolstered by the knowledge that every day I wake up healthy is a blessing. I no longer take anything for granted. Instead, I choose to focus on the abundance in my life — the laughter, the love, the opportunities to make a difference.

Cancer was my wake-up call. It forced me to reevaluate my priorities and make changes I might never have considered otherwise. I shifted into prevention mode, determined to do everything in my power to protect my health and well-being. This transformation didn’t just change my personal life; it also shaped my career and my sense of purpose. I became a massage therapist and wellness coach, channeling my passion for healing and self-care into helping others. There’s something incredibly powerful about using my hands and my heart to guide others on their wellness journeys. I know firsthand how life-changing it can be to feel truly cared for, and I strive to offer that same compassion to every client I work with.

My journey also inspired me to put pen to paper and share my story with the world. I’ve published two books, both born from my experiences as a survivor and my commitment to living fully. If my words can offer even a glimmer of hope or encouragement to someone else, then every struggle has been worth it.

I am living proof that a breast cancer diagnosis doesn’t have to be the end of your story. In fact, it can be the beginning of a richer, more meaningful life. Each day, I choose to celebrate survival by loving myself, caring for my body, and sharing hope with those around me. And for that, I am endlessly grateful.

This piece reflects the author’s personal experience and perspective as a breast cancer survivor. For medical advice, please consult your health care provider.

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