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An excerpt from Kara's story:

"I continued living wild and free. I traveled, I visited many places and experienced many things. I met my life partner and settled down again. Everything was great until it wasn’t. I received a call from my mother that my dad had a heart attack, and I ran as fast as I could back home. My dad did not make it. We lost him this time. I lost my confidante, and I had no idea what to do. I decided to do what my dad would have wanted. I became the family confidante. I was the one my family turned to for help and advice. My dad and I were so remarkably similar that everyone knew they could come to me. But who could I turn to? Where could I go? Who would take care of me?

Nine months later, I would face the scariest journey I had ever taken. I was told I had triple negative breast cancer just before my youngest son’s first birthday. I learned later it is one of the most aggressive forms and there are limited options for treatment. I once again became the wild horse that would do things her way. I was bullied by the doctors, they tried to instill fear into me. They wanted me to do treatment their way, but I wouldn’t allow it. I knew better. I knew my body. I elected to pursue integrative medicine. If I had to do conventional for the sake of my children, then I would incorporate holistic as well. I did what I wanted on my terms. I healed myself, mind – body-spirit. I made all my decisions based on my overall survival, not fear. I never asked God why this happened to me? I knew there was a purpose, a reason for all of this and what I had to endure. Though I may not have understood it, I knew it served a purpose.

So, off I went into the wild. My son is now 6 years old, I am 5 years cancer free, and I do not regret any of my decisions. I believe my wild horse spirit is here to heal and help others."

For more information, visit guardanthealth.com and follow the company on LinkedIn, https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdiqPH-w1iWHUiC4yfgecTIlr703lqw57&si=Ai8lVX93vYJsGDJP

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An excerpt from her story:

"Throughout my cancer journey, music has been my constant companion, guiding me through the darkest moments and lifting my spirits when all seemed lost. The lyrics of “Lean on Me” became a lifeline, reminding me that I was not alone.

As I emerged from the depths of treatment, I realized that my life had been transformed into a triumphant symphony. The cancer had not broken me; it had made me stronger, wiser, and more resilient.

Reflecting on my life’s soundtrack, I am grateful for the melodies shaping my experiences. The songs of Motown and Christianity have become the soundtrack of my resilience, my triumph, and my unwavering faith. They have reminded me that even when the notes are low and the lyrics are heartbreaking, there is always hope for a beautiful symphony to emerge.

And so, the soundtrack of my life continues to play, each song a testament to the power of the human spirit, the healing nature of music, and the transformative love of God.

Today, “Take Me to the King” stands as a testament to the power of hope, perseverance, and the healing embrace of Christian music. My soundtrack has evolved into a beautiful symphony that will continue to play, inspiring me and others to face life’s challenges with courage and grace."

For more information, visit guardanthealth.com and follow the company on LinkedIn, https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdiqPH-w1iWHUiC4yfgecTIlr703lqw57&si=Ai8lVX93vYJsGDJP

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Excerpt from Nelia's Story:

"Amidst the barrage of treatments and doctor’s visits, there lies a quiet, unyielding force that propelled me to move forward. It was not found in the sterile halls of the hospital or the vast expanse of online medical literature. It was in the gentle, reassuring grip of my husband’s hand, the one that had not loosened since the day the words, “you have cancer” disrupted our lives. His unspoken promise that this was just another obstacle we had to overcome together. Steve’s unwavering support was my haven, and my fears were met with hope.

And then there are my children - Cassandra, Alexander, and Sophie Angelina - each a unique beacon of light in the darkest times. The fear of leaving them behind haunted the corners of my mind, a quiet whisper in the night that threatened to unravel me. Yet, it is this very fear that kindled the fire within me, a flame of determination that could not be extinguished. My children are the anchors that tether me to this world, the reasons I fight this battle with every ounce of my strength.

In the intricate mosaic that is my life’s stained-glass window, every fragment represents a cherished story or a treasured memory. The love and resilience of my family are infused in each luminous silhouette. United, we form an exquisite work of art, born of affection and an unbreakable connection. Along with the sunlight, we embrace the darkness, for both illuminate the profound beauty of our familial bond."

For more information, visit guardanthealth.com and follow the company on LinkedIn, https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdiqPH-w1iWHUiC4yfgecTIlr703lqw57&si=Ai8lVX93vYJsGDJP

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An excerpt from Anna's story:

"Like a runner rounding the bases, I celebrated each small victory along the way. I cherished the moments of normalcy, the laughter and love that filled my home. I found solace in writing, pouring my heart into a memoir that would one day inspire others who were facing their battles.

The support of my family and friends has been my dugout, a sanctuary where I can rest and recharge. They are my cheerleaders, my coaches, and my teammates. Together, we form an

unbreakable bond, a team that will not be defeated. The journey has been arduous, filled with both triumphs and setbacks. But through it all, I have learned the importance of resilience, perseverance, and faith. Like a baseball game, life is unpredictable. There will be times when we strike out and times when we hit the ball out of the park. But it is in the face of adversity that we discover our true strength and purpose.

I am filled with gratitude for the many lessons I have learned. I have learned the importance of determination, the power of faith, and the transformative nature of love. I have learned that even in the face of adversity, we can rise above our circumstances and become a source of inspiration for others. For in the grand scheme of life, it is not the number of home runs we hit that matters, but the way we play the game."

For more information, visit guardanthealth.com and follow the company on LinkedIn, https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdiqPH-w1iWHUiC4yfgecTIlr703lqw57&si=Ai8lVX93vYJsGDJP

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An excerpt from Kayla's Story:

"I had watched as matriarchs of my family received diagnoses of their own years earlier, well-on into their 70’s. I witnessed the toll treatments took and the way they rose to the occasion, each in her own way. Both reminding me that with the right amount of grit and grace, anything in life is possible.

5 years. 5 years since this journey began. 5 years ago marks my “before.” Today I’m still navigating through my “after” and “tomorrow” and balancing being present to soak in my “here and now.”

While cancer does not define who I am, it has, very much, become the fabric of my being. Something I will forever recognize, discuss, celebrate and grieve milestones of.

The reflection is clearer now. Just like the mirror, she has layers. A deep, dark, layer holding close to my inner thoughts and fears. Next, a reflective coating. Taking the best moments and lessons and showing them to me in the most beautiful way possible. And lastly, the glass. This glass is stronger now, having been forged through fire. This glass has been tempered by the heat. Meant to withstand. Just like the woman staring back at me.

Deep down there are ashes swirling around themselves, ready to resurrect, to rise again. She will never be the same again. Thrown into the dark, walking straight into the fire, her wings are spreading. Illuminating the way. “For what is to give light, endure the burning.”

I am standing in the ashes of who I used to be. I am Kayla. Strong, resilient, wholehearted. I am not scared of the fire. I am the fire."

For more information, visit guardanthealth.com and follow the company on LinkedIn, https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdiqPH-w1iWHUiC4yfgecTIlr703lqw57&si=Ai8lVX93vYJsGDJP

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Still I Rise features stories from You Night's STORY CRAFTING COMMUNITY. To read additional stories, visit our Facebook page:

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An excerpt from Adrianne's story:

"After surgery, and surgery and then another surgery, I had this feeling of, “Will it ever just end? How will I be able to get back to my old self and when will I feel and look ‘normal’ again?” I had run a ½ marathon just 4 months after my first initial surgery release date but, I wasn’t myself yet. I had tons of compliments and friends telling me how great and, such I had appeared on the outside…. But really, it was from the shoulders up that I was longing to have back to myself. Then, my now 10 year old daughter knocked me back into reality when at my 1 year mark she made me realize that the “New Me”, was the “Old Me” – just cancer free and even better because I was here – ALIVE. I had slowed down, learned to take time, literally stopped to smell the roses, appreciated who I spent my time with, stopped telling everyone “yes” before I told myself and my family “yes” and just relaxed a bit. I will forever be in Sylvia’s debt for what she has done for me – she will never know her true strength and super power.

Lastly, the wisdom I hope to share is that diagnosed or not – just use your time here on Earth wisely. Spend it with those you love and do things that make you happy. If you want to volunteer, do it. If you want to travel, do it. If you don’t love your job – get a new one. Find something that MAKES YOU HAPPY! Life really is short and we don’t know when it will be over. Enjoy life and be sure you have no regrets! I can tell you that I make the choice every single day to be happy and spend my days with folks I love and doing projects and ideas that make me feel better about my life. Just go for it – because you have nothing to lose and everything amazing to gain! Hell, you may just end up on a runway one day!"

For more information, visit guardanthealth.com and follow the company on LinkedIn, https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdiqPH-w1iWHUiC4yfgecTIlr703lqw57&si=Ai8lVX93vYJsGDJP

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Still I Rise features stories from You Night's STORY CRAFTING COMMUNITY. To read additional stories, visit our Facebook page:

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An excerpt from Amber's Story:

"Cancer took everything from me which has left me in a position to relearn everything anew. I have learned that if I can survive depression while battling cancer, I can overcome just about anything. I emerged from this battle more confident in my ability to navigate my mental health. The tree that had lost all its branches and leaves has started to show new life. I am a lot stronger and more resilient than I could have ever imagined. I hope my tree, one day, can provide shade and shelter for others. Most importantly, I’ve come to realize I’m not that solitary tree, I am part of a forest."

For more information, visit guardanthealth.com and follow the company on LinkedIn, https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdiqPH-w1iWHUiC4yfgecTIlr703lqw57&si=Ai8lVX93vYJsGDJP

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Still I Rise features stories from You Night's STORY CRAFTING COMMUNITY. To read additional stories, visit our Facebook page:

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An excerpt from Debi's story:

"With his help, I stayed healthy throughout my chemo swim. This first transition was such a wonderful break from seeing so many doctors and lab work to some weeks of no appointments at all. I kept looking at my portal thinking I was missing something! My body progressed to where there would be no delay for surgery. A sense of peace and calmness came across me before surgery. I knew I had this with God’s help and many prayers. Just like the time I was fairly new at biking. A group of us went on a ride and as usual, I was the last to make it to the rest stop. This time it was harder than normal, but I never gave up.

After a little inspection of my bike, we realized my front wheel brakes were on. It was like looking out of the hospital window the day of my surgery and seeing God’s beautiful rainbow He painted showing me grace. I’ve concluded that no matter how hard an obstacle is, it can be
overcome. This has truly been the hardest ride so far, but I made it with the help of my husband and sister’s loving care along with all the doctors, nurses, and staff.

I’m currently in my second transition of recovery waiting to start radiation. It’s very hard, but I did it! My new normal is ok and I’ll be fine. Take what you’re given, make the most of it, and don’t look back in hopes of things changing. While I have not completed my journey as of this writing, the unknown of my “normal” still lies ahead. I will make it to the finish line a winner. I’ve got this!"

Thank you to Guardant Health for their support of the Still I Rise Podcast. Guardant Health is a leading precision oncology company focused on guarding wellness and giving every person more time free from cancer. Their blood and tissue tests help improve outcomes across all stages of care; they can screen to help find cancer early, monitor for recurrence in early-stage cancer patients, and enable timely and targeted treatment selection for those with advanced cancer. For more information, visit guardanthealth.com and follow the company on LinkedIn, X (Twitter) and Facebo

You can also find the video version of this story on our YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdiqPH-w1iWHUiC4yfgecTIlr703lqw57&si=Ai8lVX93vYJsGDJP

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Still I Rise features stories from You Night's STORY CRAFTI

For more information, visit guardanthealth.com and follow the company on LinkedIn, https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdiqPH-w1iWHUiC4yfgecTIlr703lqw57&si=Ai8lVX93vYJsGDJP

You can also follow us on our Story Crafting Community page: https://www.facebook.com/YouNightStories

Support the show

Still I Rise features stories from You Night's STORY CRAFTING COMMUNITY. To read additional stories, visit our Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/YouNightStories. Would you like to participate in a 6-week Story Crafting small group experience so that you can share your story? Write to us at teamyounight@gmail.com