From Darkness to Dawn: My 3-Year Dance with Triple Negative Breast Cancer – Wow! It’s been three years since I received the daunting diagnosis of Stage 3 Triple-Negative Breast Cancer.
Along with the diagnosis came a daunting treatment plan of chemotherapy and radiation, supplemented by an array of healing modalities. To name just a few: juicing, IV vitamin and saline drips, colonics, acupuncture, Reiki energy healing, various supplements, meditation, yoga, infrared therapy, mindset work, hypnotherapy, psychiatric support, massage therapy, and physical therapy. I also had to have several surgeries: hysterectomy, double mastectomy, and multiple reconstructions. Oh, and there were the harrowing experiences of nearly dying six times due to a drug’s side effect! To say a lot has happened would be an understatement! I feel it has all happened for reasons though, one of which being so that I can now share this with you all and highly recommend these healing modalities for many health conditions!
Here are a few other Tips: Practice mindfulness and meditation for emotional balance.
- Explore various holistic treatments as complementary therapies.
- Keep close connections with loved ones for support.
In navigating this journey, I’ve discovered the power of unique paths. Each personal experience offers universal lessons. My distinct challenges and triumphs highlight the value of fresh perspectives in overcoming adversity. These insights, a fusion of conventional treatment and holistic approaches, aim to inspire those facing similar battles. Embracing our uniqueness and sharing ideas contributes to our collective wisdom
The Power of Love and Support
Throughout the journey, I’ve encountered devastation and growth, disconnection and learning, as well as the un~learning of old patterns. There were moments of stress, depression, sadness, and frustration, but also abundant prayer, glimmers of hope, deep human connections, moments of joy, burgeoning optimism, and love — so much love, from me, to me, and around me. For all of this, I am forever grateful. I’ve been a busy butterfly indeed! Emerging from the cocoon to embrace life fully, then retreating at times to learn, trust the process and purpose, face fears, and overcome doubts. But through it all, light has always found a way in, offering hope and eventually outshining any darkness!
Life continued to unfold with its blend of change, loss, trauma, and sadness, but amidst it all, there were also sparkles of light & love, and even miracles — truly! Miracles are all around us. I urge you to seek the light in any moments of struggle.
The passing of time: Family Milestones & Changes
Such a short time, yet much happened as if all that wasn’t enough! On the personal front, our daughter’s life accelerated: high school graduation, starting college, marriage, and a move to South Korea! Once the little girl who returned from school to my eager embraces, she’s now a beautiful, independent woman. Though we’ve missed our in-person chats, a recent joyful reunion in Kona, Hawaii, filled me with happiness. We shared warm hugs and cherished moments, surrounded by breathtaking scenery. We’re immensely proud of her and her husband, now lovingly considered our son.
As the saying goes, ‘Tough roads lead to beautiful destinations.’
We lost our cherished dog, Cadence Sebastian and our daughter took Fiona Quinn. And so, in perfect timing and with grace, entered Remi Grace, stage right. I remember sending out a plea to the universe: ‘Angels, If I’m meant to have another sweet fury soul in my life, please bring them to me with ease, grace, and flow.’ And guess what? Just 24 hours later, she was in my arms! Remi is truly a divine gift, the yin to my yang, bringing immense joy into our lives.
Reflecting on the Journey: Scars and Triumphs
Last year marked another milestone in my personal life — my husband Matt and I celebrated 28 years of marriage. Matt is the most incredible man anyone could ever dream of, and I am more grateful for his love than words can express. Matt, I love you so much. Here’s to 29 more years and beyond! Reflecting on this incredible journey and the unwavering bond we share, pause for a moment and consider this: Through every trial, tribulation, triumph, and the direst moments of my fight for survival, Matt was right there alongside me. He often says, ‘We had cancer.’ And I firmly believe I would not have made it without him. His unwavering love, commitment, dedication, and perseverance are testaments to the incredible human being and enlightened soul that he is. In those hard times, we need to lean in to our loved ones.
Sharing My Story: The Dharma Project Throughout my treatments, I documented my journey with real-time reflections on ‘The Dharma Project’ podcast. Marking three years since my diagnosis, I revisited and updated my inaugural January episode — the month everything shifted. This revisitation, now enriched with video, offers a hindsight view of my journey. Catch the episode here.
Along with all the mental and emotional scars, I am adorned with lots of beautiful scars across my body, and yet, I have never felt happier. I hope that you, too, can find the beauty in your scars and hold onto hope throughout your journey, just as I have and continue to do. Until Next Time, Sending You Love & Light
If your story may help to shed some light in the darkness like mine, Share it in the comments below or on social media using #BeautyInCancer, #_TheRealStephanieWeeks
Check out Stephanie’s Podcast, the Dharma Project!
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