I hope this message finds you well and surrounded by love and joy as we welcome in a new year. It’s been quite a while since I’ve written to you all, and I owe you an explanation for my absence. To say 2024 was a challenging year for me would be an understatement. The truth is, I’ve been missing in action because I was fighting my own battle with health, and I want to share that with you now.
Over the course of just eight months, I underwent three surgeries. The first was for a condition called Silent Sinus Syndrome, which was far more difficult on me than I had ever imagined. Shortly after, I needed two procedures done in one go—a Dilation and Curettage (D&C) and gallbladder removal. My body was exhausted, but I thought I was through the worst of it.
Then, my results from the D&C came back. And I heard words I never thought I would hear: "You have cancer." Typing this now still brings tears to my eyes. I was diagnosed with Endometrial Cancer, and my world seemed to collapse around me. I had to have another surgery to remove everything inside, along with lymph nodes from my legs—surgery number three. It was a lot to handle, physically and emotionally, but somehow, I made it through. My husband, family and friends stood by my side the entire time. Truly they were my pillars.
There was another unexpected twist in this journey. It turns out that my tissues showed signs of a genetic condition called Lynch Syndrome. For those who may not be familiar with Lynch Syndrome, it’s a genetic condition that increases the risk of various cancers, including colorectal, endometrial, ovarian, and several others. The good news is that early screening can detect it, and that’s why I’m sharing this with you now. It’s more common than many realize, and if it’s caught early, it can truly save lives. I’m currently working with a Cancer Genetic Specialists to learn more about Lynch Syndrome and what it means for my future. Waiting for those results has been hard, but I’m doing my best to stay hopeful.
Now for the good news—my cancer was caught in its Stage 1 form. Thanks to the timely surgeries, my doctors believe they got all of the cancer out, and I won’t need additional treatments. I am beyond grateful to God and to all my angels up in heaven who have carried me through this. Every day feels like a gift.
I know this isn’t the usual update I share, but I felt it was important to let you know what’s been going on with me.
On the writing front, I have good news to share as well! Despite everything, I finished a book in the spring, and it will be coming out soon. Of course, it’s taken me longer to get everything together due to my health journey, but I’m excited to finally be back to my work. I’m also working on more books and short stories, so stay tuned for that!
Thank you again for your patience, your kindness, and your continued support. I’m looking forward to sharing new stories with you all very soon.
Wishing you all a Happy New Year filled with health, happiness, and hope.
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