One year ago I was in the worst pain of my life.

One year ago was my final day of radiation/oral chemotherapy anal cancer treatments (read more).

One year ago, I thought it would be back to “normal” in a few weeks.

Yesterday, a journalist for ACB 7 News interviewed me (and Ryeson about the Randall the Blue Spider Goes Surfing book) and commented that I was so happy & smiling even though I have gone through hell and back over the last year +.

My response to her: Moving forward, one of my goals in life is to encourage everyone to listen to their body, and go see a doctor, community health center, etc when they feel like something is off.

I have to smile because if I don’t, I’ll tear up. 🥰🥺

Even though the worst pain of my life was a year ago, there are definitely mental health issues, physical therapy, and some brain fog that may impact me for years to come —

But.

I understand the importance of health more than ever. I also have a 2nd children’s book on the way (yay) and a relatively healthy family that I am going to spend a lifetime advocating for.

I wanted to spend today celebrating with friends and family. But instead, I’m gonna go make a protein shake and try not to tear up. 💙🤞