The View from Ten Years: A Journey of Gratitude and Resilience

When I was first diagnosed with lung cancer, I didn’t think I’d make it to 10 years. I had little hope, and the future felt uncertain. However, reaching my five-year milestone gave me the courage to believe that 10 years might just be possible. As my 10th anniversary with lung cancer approached, I decided to celebrate this incredible milestone with the trip of a lifetime.

Planning a milestone celebration

Planning such a trip wasn’t easy, as living on disability made finances tight, but I was determined. With careful saving and a little creativity, we decided to use a week from our timeshare in Mexico. After all, despite traveling around the world, I had never been to Cancun. I knew I had to celebrate in a way that reflected the magnitude of this milestone. Ten years of life after a stage 3B lung cancer diagnosis is nothing short of a miracle, and I wanted to honor it in a big way.

A season of celebration and gratitude

Cancun was one part of this celebration, but it wasn’t the only one. Earlier in October 2024, I embarked on another incredible journey — a two-week trip to Italy with my sister and brother-in-law. Then, just a couple of weeks later, I celebrated again with my trip to Mexico.

Embracing the beauty of living fully

These two adventures were my way of embracing life and acknowledging how far I’ve come. Living 10 years with lung cancer is an achievement I never thought possible, and these trips were a testament to resilience, gratitude, and the beauty of living fully.

We booked the trip to coincide with the week of my lung cancer diagnosis anniversary, making the occasion even more meaningful. Traveling with my husband, my mother-in-law, my youngest daughter, and her girlfriend made it all the more special.

Finding light after a difficult year

Cancun was absolutely beautiful, and every moment of the trip was filled with gratitude and joy. We explored, relaxed, and celebrated life in a way that I never thought I’d be able to 10 years ago. It was a trip filled with love, blessings, and a deep appreciation for every day I’ve been given.

This trip was even more meaningful because my youngest daughter was by my side. Earlier in the year, in January 2024, my 23-year-old daughter attempted suicide in a way that devastated me and our family. I hadn’t realized the depth of her struggle with depression and mental illness, and her attempt shook our world to its core. The start of 2024 was incredibly tough as I grappled with the emotional toll of her struggle while managing my own challenges with lung cancer and frequent appointments.

The healing power of a shared journey

Through perseverance, love, and support, we got through it — she got through it. So, having her with me on this milestone trip was a blessing beyond words.

For both of us, the trip was a reminder of life’s beauty despite its trials. For me, it symbolized life giving my daughter back to me. For her, I hope it was a chance to see that even amidst hardships, there is so much to live for.

Savoring every moment together in Mexico

Cancun was breathtaking. We explored the temple at Chichen Itza, swam in a stunning cenote, and visited Isla Mujeres. Even the tropical storm, which kept us inside for three days, couldn’t dampen our spirits. We laughed, relaxed, and soaked in the sunshine, while enjoying delicious food and drinks. Sitting on the beach, reflecting on my 10 years battling lung cancer, I felt deeply reminded to keep fighting. Life, even in its struggles, is a gift.