One-Year Anniversary

A year ago today, everything changed.

A year ago, I almost fainted in a movie theater bathroom during Fantastic Four. A kind nurse stopped to help me, and after doing some tests, encouraged me to go to the ER. Then another friend stepped in, and another, and family, and more. At the ER, they found the cause of my summer of headaches and lethargy… a brain tumor: a Grade 4 glioblastoma.

We had no idea that moment would mark the beginning of a year we never could have imagined.

Since then, there have been scans, appointments, surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, infusions, clinical trials, flights to Duke, hotel stays, meal trains, visitors, and an incredible outpouring of support in both NC and CO. There have been good days and hard ones, fear and gratitude, and through it all, so much GOOD.

A few very special people recently reminded me that this is a CELEBRATION. And they’re right. ❤️

One year later, life is still filled with beautiful moments. I’m still working, still making plans, still laughing, and still embracing every new adventure along the way. This chapter may look different than I once imagined, but there is so much to be grateful for, so much to look forward to, and so much to celebrate.

So here’s to LIVING, to laughter, to the people who make it sweeter, and to all the beautiful moments still to come. ✨

A year ago, we were learning words and phrases we never wanted to know. And somehow, here we are. One year later. And I give my thanks to so many and to God. ❤️

Josh has been beside me through every appointment, infusion, uncertainty, and ordinary day in between. He is the reason I’m at Duke, and I’ll forever be grateful for his research, his heart, and his perseverance.

I’m also endlessly grateful for God, my family, friends, and the doctors, nurses, researchers, and medical professionals who have carried us through this year. There aren’t enough words to thank everyone who has shown up for us.

Thank you for every check-in, prayer, meal, laugh, cheer, visit, and reminder that we weren’t carrying this alone. We truly could not have done it without you. ❤️