Sam’s Cancer Journey
Explore Sam’s resilient journey through thyroid cancer, a young woman’s empowering triumph over diagnosis, challenges, and surgeries in college and beyond.
Sam // 30 Stories Campaign™ // Thyroid Cancer Awareness
As a junior in college, my life took an unexpected turn. The frequent flights between school and my home were about to be infused with a new purpose, a new battle. It was a year of upheaval, marked by random weight fluctuations, shifts in medications and the heart-wrenching loss of my beloved cat. In the midst of life’s roller coaster, I found myself embarking on a journey that would test my strength, resilience and optimism.
The early signs were perplexing—a fluctuation in weight, unrelenting grief and the haze of medication changes. As a young woman with a history of polycystic ovary syndrome, I knew my body could sometimes have unpredictable rhythms. My general practitioner, armed with compassion and a holistic approach, ordered blood work and introduced me to an unconventional remedy: rubbing iodine on my neck. It was a peculiar yet hopeful step in an unfolding narrative.
Despite the challenges of recovery, I remained committed to both my health and my aspirations… as I doggedly maintained my 4.0 GPA.
A series of medical steps followed, each leading me closer to the revelation that would reshape my path. Ultrasounds, biopsies and consultations with specialists guided me to the doorstep of my care team. Stepping into their realm of medical expertise, I felt a strange juxtaposition of uncertainty and comfort. The word “cancer” was conspicuously absent from the discourse—its gravity kept at bay. It was only within the walls of the operating room, right before surgery, that the raw reality confronted me.
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In the heart of my college senior year, while pursuing a future in trauma and addiction counseling, I faced my first surgical intervention. My surgeon, a beacon of support and understanding, seamlessly integrated my academic pursuits into the demanding calendar of medical appointments. Despite the challenges of recovery, I remained committed to both my health and my aspirations. My determination remained unswerving, as I doggedly maintained my 4.0 GPA.
A patient advocate… transformed the experience into one of profound connection and care…
As my journey continued, another chapter unfolded during my time in graduate school. A second surgery was required, when yet another mass in my neck was found. After that surgery, I was left with a keloid scar that symbolized my triumph over adversity. The scar—a badge of honor in my opinion—stands as a reminder of the battles I fought and the strength I gained.
Looking back, I realize… I had found empowerment… my own resilience…
My surgical team’s meticulous care extended beyond the operating table. Beyond the recovery room, a symphony of support played out. A patient advocate, who stayed by my mother’s side, transformed the experience into one of profound connection and care—offering reassurance and guidance. Their unwavering support comforted me and emboldened my spirit.
Looking back, I realize that I had not just survived my thyroid cancer journey—I had found empowerment, realized my own resilience and persevered with unwavering determination.
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For someone recently diagnosed with cancer, reading the stories of other caregivers and survivors can inspire.
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