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Bridge The Gap Between Cancer & Hope

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Bridge The Gap Between Cancer & Hope

Bridging The Gap Between Cancer & Hope

https://facebook.com/61550018352836

Bridge The Gap Between Cancer & Hope

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🌍 World Health Day 🌍<br /> <br /> Happy World Health Day! The purpose of my nonprofit is to bring people together to raise awareness about the importance of health and highlight the challenges we face in combatting diseases such as cancer and other health issues. Today let’s take a minute to reflect on our own well-being and that of our loved ones. My mission isn’t just about cancer awareness, my mission is to advocate for everyone with health issues so we can live for a better tomorrow. <br /> <br /> It took me the longest to speak out and advocate for myself, 35-40 years to be exact. Last week I stood in my office having a conversation with a 25 year old female with a few challenges of her own. As I spoke to her I felt as though I was speaking to my 25 year old self. We had been through so many of the same health issues at right about the same ages. I could feel her fear in her tears. I felt her emotions with every fiber of my being because I was once her. <br /> <br /> 🟣 Fibromyalgia patients… I feel you. I know how it feels for my body to be at war with itself. I feel your nerve endings exposed, I feel your sleep disturbances. I know your muscles are tired. I know it takes every thing you have to pull yourself out of bed. I know what it’s like to feel like you are running a race you will never win because you can’t even pick up your feet to get off the starting line. I too was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia as a teenager. <br /> <br /> 🔴 Cancer Survivors… I am you. I am one of the 50% that hear “you have cancer.” In addition, I am one of the 0.24% diagnosed each year with an extremely rare cancer. I have moaned my own death. I have cried so hard my body became dehydrated from tears. I have experienced poison running through my veins. I have felt the radiation, 38 rounds, 5 days a week, to my skull. I know what it’s like to have your head placed in a microwave for 15 minutes at a time. I wish I had more time to research my treatment plan. The side effects left behind from Radiation &amp; Cisplatin Chemotherapy are forever life changing. I have developed Chemically induced COPD and been placed on 4 inhalers due to this. I have peripheral Neuropathy in both legs now. I have bladder retention. And my blood levels are all over the place. Survivor… I feel you in my bones. I know what it’s like to not be understood or to hear the word Remission (or in my case Stable) and everyone around you think life is normal again. There is no more “normal” there is a new way of life. Cancer, one of the leading causes of death worldwide, affects millions of lives each year. It is a disease that knows no boundaries, affecting people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds.<br /> <br /> 🟢 POLG Mitochondrial Disease… I hate you! Of all the diseases I have seen and witnessed in my life, this is the worst! It’s often a silent battle because its victims are too young to speak. Mitochondrial disease, a complex and mysterious disorder, often goes unnoticed by many. Yet, it silently affects thousands of individuals worldwide. At its core, mitochondrial disease is a group of genetic disorders that affect the mitochondria, the powerhouses of our cells responsible for producing energy. Over the past 8 months I have seen mitochondrial shatter my family and leave us with broken hearts. Hazel’s battle is over and it may have been a silent battle by her but it’s far from being forgotten, and our voice will be heard!! With increased awareness, research, and support, we can strive towards a better understanding of this complex condition and ultimately improve the lives of those affected. You will never hear me say Hazel lost her battle. I was in the room the night she took her last breath. That baby fought her fight and won victory in the hands of Jesus. No more pain, no more disease. <br /> <br /> 🟡 Scoliosis patients… I too have an abnormal curvature of the spine. For those that don’t know anything about Scoliosis; imagine your spine as the pillar of your body, providing stability and support. Now, envision that pillar curving sideways, creating an S or C-shaped curve. This is scoliosis, a condition that can range from mild to severe, affecting people of all ages and backgrounds. At the age of 13 I was diagnosed with an 67° curvature so severe I had to have immediate surgery. I was told the surgery would be so extreme there was a chance I would never walk again. You are not alone! I feel the physical and emotional challenges you are facing. I understand your back pain, limited mobility, and difficulties with breathing or digestion. Additionally, the visible asymmetry of the spine can lead to self-consciousness and a negative impact on self-esteem. I still can’t embrace my scars on my back. I understand the struggle but it is important to remember that scoliosis does not define a person.<br /> <br /> 🟠 Stroke families &amp; patients… I see you &amp; I feel you. My dad had a stroke 5 years ago. I know what it is like to hold my dad’s hand and assist him with his rehabilitated after a stroke. I sat at his bedside at the VA hospital for weeks as he learned to walk again, feed hisself again, dress again. The mental challenges were so hard for him. It pulled every heartstring I have. He is truly my hero! He has gone through so much and has come so far! <br /> 6 days ago I became a patient too. I am far more fortunate as mine was a mini stroke. But at the age of 42 I never thought this would be my reality. I have to say more than anything this has hit me hard mentally. I feel I am slowly letting go of what I once knew prior to cancer. I blame this on Cisplatin from chemotherapy although my doctors &amp; my heart tells me it’s stress. <br /> <br /> ⚪️ Sexual abuse &amp; Rape Victims… I don’t open up about this much but when I choose to advocate for others, I choose no restrictions. As a child I went through seven years of sexual violence. There isn’t much I can say about it because it will never be something I fully understand. But it’s extremely important that if this is you… you know IT IS NOT YOUR FAULT! You will hear, “well you shouldn’t have dressed like that.” When did a CareBear nightgown become a sexual symbol. “You shouldn’t put yourself in that situation.” When did celebrating Christmas with family become a “situation” for a five year old.<br /> As a child that grew up in church I would sometimes question where God was during this abuse, or why he allowed it to happen. What victims do, especially when you’re younger is we build these messages in our mind that justify how &amp; why. And they are false! It is never your fault! Never! It wasn’t until I was out of the abuse that it became such a pivotal moment in my faith. I remember having the same intense feeling during this moment as I did when I questioned it. I was all the sudden back in the abuse as an out of body experience. I could see the yard where it first took place, I could see the tree we were playing hide &amp; seek behind, I could smell the fresh grass, I could see my five year old self standing there so helpless as he pressed his body against my small frame. <br /> I could see the room where it continued for 7 years. I could see the bed with the blue comforter, I could see the brown carpet, I could smell the cologne, I could see the window I would stare out of as the abuse took place. I could see the picture of his girlfriend and hear his voice telling me he was “turning me into her”. Then I could see myself. Myself! I could see myself on the bed with a tear running down my cheek. And in that moment I saw God. Just as plain as day, He appeared over my body and laid his body over mine and he took every ounce of abuse I endured. He didn’t allow it to happen, He didn’t leave me, He shielded me. I often wonder if the fibromyalgia stems from the seven years of abuse. I learned to shut my body completely down and not allow it to feel pain. And when I finally was past the abuse and able to relax the pain hit like a ton of brinks. This is a question I will never know the answer to but will always wonder. <br /> <br /> 🟢 Spinal Cord Injury… Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a life-altering condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the spinal cord, which is responsible for transmitting messages between the brain and the rest of the body, is damaged. SCI can result in a range of physical and neurological impairments, leading to significant changes in a person&#039;s mobility, sensory function, and overall quality of life. At the age of 15 our precious Hunter was involved in an MVA leaving him a paraplegic. The challenges faced by individuals with SCI are multifaceted. Physical limitations, such as paralysis, muscle weakness, and loss of sensation, can significantly impact daily activities and independence. Simple tasks that were once taken for granted, like walking or picking up objects, may become difficult or impossible without assistive devices or modifications. In addition, SCI can also result in secondary health complications. People with SCI may be at higher risk for developing respiratory problems, bladder and bowel dysfunction, pressure sores, and chronic pain. The emotional and psychological toll of SCI should not be overlooked either, as individuals may experience feelings of loss, grief, and frustration as they adjust to their new reality. It is important for society as a whole to develop a greater understanding and empathy towards individuals with spinal cord injury. By creating inclusive environments, removing physical barriers, and promoting accessibility, we can empower individuals with SCI to live fulfilling and meaningful lives. Hunter will always be my inspiration. If I am blessed enough to kick my feet off the bed and walk… I will always walk for him, even on my worst days. He didn’t allow his SCI to stop him and I will not Stop because of him! He truly is my angel on earth. <br /> <br /> ⚫️ Mental Health… Mental health is a topic that affects every single one of us. It is the state of our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Just as we prioritize our physical health, it is crucial to pay attention to our mental well-being as well. However, despite its significance, mental health has long been surrounded by stigma and misunderstanding. First and foremost, we need to acknowledge that mental health is a spectrum. It encompasses a wide range of conditions, from anxiety and depression to bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. No one is immune to the challenges that mental health can bring, and it is essential to approach the topic with empathy and understanding. Seeking help should never be seen as a sign of weakness. It takes immense strength to recognize when we need support and take the necessary steps to prioritize our mental well-being. If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or healthcare professional. There is no shame in seeking help, and you are not alone in your journey. 🖤 RIP Dustin Hardester, Marcus Yates, Jody Taylor, Marcus Yates &amp; So Many Others! Suicide Hotline: 1-800-273-8255<br /> <br /> Let World Health Day serve as a reminder that our health is our most valuable asset. It is a day to come together, share knowledge, and take action towards a healthier future for ourselves and future generations. By joining hands, we can make a difference and create a world where health and well-being are a priority for all. Remember, your health matters. Take care of yourself, support others, and let us work together towards a healthier, happier world.<br /> <br /> I am only sharing my story to help you advocate for yours! Let us unite, educate, advocate, and support ALL people, ensuring that their voices are heard and that they receive the care and attention they deserve. When you are too weak to advocate for yourself, I will advocate for you! 🤍 Feel free to share your story in the comments. Together, we can make a difference in the fight against disease.<br /> <br /> #WorldHealthDay #TogetherAgainstCancer #GlobalHealth #MitochondrialDiseaseAwareness #ScoliosisAwareness #EmbraceYourCurves #SpinalCordInjury #SCI #Stroke #Cancer #Rape #RareCancer #CancerPrevention #PeerCounselor #PatientAdvocate #SexualAbuse #MentalHealth #AdenoidCysticCarcinoma #Cisplatin #Radiation #Chemotherapy #ACC #StageIII #ColonCancer #LungCancer #BreastCancer #SkinCancer #Remission #ChildhoodCancer #CervicalCancer #OvarianCancer #Leukemia #SupportPage #Fibromyalgia

Bridge The Gap Between Cancer & Hope

https://facebook.com/61550018352836