I’m Tired
I’m tired. / Tired of 7AM dentist appointments so I won’t miss work. Every week, the receptionist asks me where I’m going afterwards, and I wearily say “to work.” / Tired of virtual doctor appointments during my lunch breaks.
Read More...COVID Reopening: Part 2
I just reread the article I wrote last May about reopening. Who knew it would be another 12 months before Ohio actually reopened? But the sentiments haven’t changed.
Read More...Triggered
I recently started dating the most incredible guy ever. From meeting me through friends several months ago, he knew I had cancer. Once we started dating, I tried to push him away by dumping all the cancer stuff, but he blessedly stayed.
Read More...Modesty
I lay next to another human, warm and comfortable and was filled with a wave of gratitude. Lovingly touched by someone who deeply cared for me. My heart felt like it would explode with happiness.
Read More...Dear Younger Me, Never Stop Living
Jen, hold your life plans loosely. Goals are great. Crushed dreams are painful. Disappointment is hard. Don’t forget that your path will not be straight. I know you love being in control and planning everything out.
Read More...Broken Together
Cancer has left my body. It no longer resides, but it has certainly left its mark. Diabetes, beginning arthritis, fibromyalgia, lung damage, heart damage, neuropathy, anemia, and much, much more still reside with me.
Read More...My Transplant Birthday
I’m sitting here crying at 8AM on a Wednesday morning, and I don’t even know why. Wait…I kinda do. Tomorrow’s my 8-yr transplant birthday. WOW! I should be so excited! Eight years is terrific!! Celebrate life! Do something big! Enjoy all the things!! Congratulations!!
Read More...The Other Shoe
I remember my freshman Honors College Orientation. We were each given a fill-in-the-blank paper. What are your graduation goals? What academic goals do you have? What social groups are you going to join?
Read More...The Cancer Patient: Behind the Emoji
Every morning, I wake up and scroll through Instagram to read the stories posted on The Cancer Patient (TCP) account. This account and online community has personally brought me laughter and comfort on my darkest days.
Read More...The Dreaded Dentist
My dad has amazing teeth. At 50, I think he maybe has had 1 cavity ever, if at all. My mother has had so much work on her mouth, it’s a wonder it’s all still together. I inherited my dad’s teeth (praise be).
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