I have lost two recently to TNBC breast cancer, I look at my children, and realize every milestone, tantrum, smile,and hug is a gift and how privileged I am to enjoy the time I am given.

As I turn forty three in a few weeks, I have never felt better. At this point in my life not only am I comfortable in my own skin, the knowledge, trials, and lessons learned have strengthen me. I am a firm believer that forty is the new thirty. We are all living longer and are certainly more youthful lives. Having five children from teens, elementary age to one in diapers keeps me feeling very youthful, however beating cancer and all its lessons has earned me wisdom beyond my years.

I am approaching my two year cancerversity and am humbled by all my experiences, lessons, blessings, and knowledge gained. Its has come as no surprise of the people who did not remain in my life during my diagnosis and battle. As in any difficult situation in life, we find out who are worthy of remaining and standing beside us. I completely appreciate the ability to see them clearly and only be surrounded by love and true friends. What did come as complete surprise are the people I have lost now that I'm well, and lack of interest now that I am cancer free.
Unfortunately while on vacation I lost two friends to breast cancer. The reality of this disease is surreal to me due to my lack of understanding how many defeat it and others succumb. Many stage 4's are doing remarkably well with stable disease, shrinking tumors, or even no evidence of cancer at all. I never lose faith or hope, and always remember those who left behind children and families in my prayers. This disease can be completely random as with myself no gene mutation, nor family history, I was simply 1 in 8 women diagnosed with no merit or reason. As in any of life's unforeseen events, and challenges, or even life threatening difficulties, it is how we rise to the occasion and make the choice to not let it destroy us and only make us better ourselves that defines us. Those we have lost are in bliss as its us left behind who tend to morn and suffer. The ones we miss would not want us to be anything less than happy in our lives.
I realize how blessed I am to be with my children and living a healthy life every day. I am one of the lucky ones, who will never take a moment for granted. The randomness of any life's unforeseen events or moments can be both tragic or unexpectedly blissful. I chose to live happily and not let any negative person or moment  take that away from me. I lead by example and will remain positive and happy.
As I have lost two recently to breast cancer, I look at my children, and realize every milestone, tantrum, smile,and hug is a gift and how privileged I am to enjoy the time I am given. It is as simple as I have been given a gift and everyday I have my health and family , I have no problems.
I am approaching my 18th anniversary (we are a true love story) and with out my husband holding my hand, holding me up, and his being there at every turn, I would  not of successfully beat this horrible disease. I refuse to arrive at any negative from my battle as all the positive has enabled me to be a better wife, mother and person.
I do feel passionately as I am healthy
due to Gods will. I will continue to help others, and share my story of faith, hope and the miracles and support others in their journeys.
I take solitude in our love ones watching over us and know that with faith and God the pain will ease.

I am currently having simple blood tests every three months for an additional year and will then drop to every six months until year five. I am thrilled to report I am only having minimal check ups. After my 3rd surgery last November I have more than paid my dues and now have non invasive routine check ups.
My life is back to normal in full swing, as I have never felt better and have plenty of energy to sustain my big brood. I am traveling and enjoying all life has to offer.
I want to say to those still battling, that there is the return to a normal life. As far as life in treatment consider it to be your new normal, and you too can defeat it! The people battling stage 4 are a true example on how to live life and are inspirational.

I always keep my pink sisters in my thoughts and prayers. We are supportive of one another and can truly relate to this horrific disease.