My name is Kayee, and I have a story that can bring hope and inspiration to others on their sarcoma journeys.
In March 2021, my life unexpectedly turned when I was diagnosed with dedifferentiated liposarcoma. At first, I dismissed the lump, thinking it was just a lipoma. However, my husband’s unwavering encouragement led me to seek medical advice. I visited several doctors, searching for answers until I found myself at Johns Hopkins.
The journey towards diagnosis was not without its challenges. An in-house biopsy proved unsuccessful, and I underwent anesthesia for a biopsy that would later confirm my condition. Shortly after that, I began therapy radiation. The fear of the unknown loomed large, especially as someone who had never experienced surgery before and as a mother of three young children. But I pressed on.
Despite the initial radiation treatment, the tumor showed no signs of shrinking. Eventually, I faced surgery, where half of my thigh was removed. The road to recovery was arduous, and I had to undergo physical therapy to learn how to walk again. The toll this took on my family was significant, and my mother came to my aid as I could not work.
Throughout this challenging period, I learned the power of faith. I discovered that even in the darkest moments, God can be our anchor and guide us through the storm. I opened a telemedicine practice during my recovery, which allowed me to see the boundless potential within us when we have faith. Through this experience, I realized that with God in our corner, nothing is impossible.
Nine months before celebrating one-year post-surgery, I received the devastating news of a recurrence. More surgery was required. The emotional devastation was overwhelming, but I clung to my unwavering faith. I knew that if God had brought me through it once, He could do it again. And indeed, I stand before you today, one-year post-free from cancer.
I share my story not to highlight my journey but to offer hope to anyone battling a similar battle. Placing your trust in God and communicating your concerns, whether big or small, with your medical team can make all the difference. Cancer is undoubtedly frightening, but the belief that you can overcome it can be transformative.
My experience has not only shaped me but has also made me a more empathic healthcare provider. I find solace in helping those with chronic diseases process their emotions and find strength in their vulnerabilities.
I am eager and willing to become a sarcoma ambassador to help break the stigma surrounding this disease and to make conversations about it more normal. I want to share words of wisdom, the role of the Sarcoma Foundation of America, and, most importantly, my story.
Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to the opportunity to be a source of encouragement and support for others facing sarcoma, just as I have. Faith instilled a sense of hope that transcended the fear and uncertainty that cancer brings. It helped me believe that my journey had a purpose, even when the road seemed dark. My faith provided comfort and a deep sense of peace during moments of pain, discomfort, and anxiety. I found solace in prayer and knowing I was not alone walking this path.
My faith community rallied around me, offering prayers, encouragement, and practical support. Knowing that I was surrounded by a community of believers who cared for me was incredibly uplifting. My journey with sarcoma helped me see life from a different perspective. It reminded me of the fragility of life and the importance of living each day with purpose, gratitude, and an awareness of the needs of others.
Faith helped me overcome the fear of recurrence and the anxiety accompanying life after cancer. It encouraged me to live in the present moment and trust in the future. My faith has inspired me to share my story, offering hope, encouragement, and a message that faith can carry us through the most challenging circumstances. In summary, my faith has been my rock, providing hope, comfort, strength, and a profound sense of purpose. It has shown me that even in the face of adversity, one can find peace and resilience through their spiritual beliefs.
With faith and determination,
Kayee
Words of Wisdom: Faith helped me overcome the fear of recurrence and the anxiety accompanying life after cancer. It encouraged me to live in the present moment and trust in the future. My faith has inspired me to share my story, offering hope, encouragement, and a message that faith can carry us through the most challenging circumstances. In summary, my faith has been my rock, providing hope, comfort, strength, and a profound sense of purpose. It has shown me that even in the face of adversity, one can find peace and resilience through their spiritual beliefs.
