A year ago today, I was looking ahead to all the wonderful things 2025 would bring to my family. I could never have imagined how incredibly difficult this year would turn out to be. I was diagnosed with breast cancer in March, and then my father was diagnosed with stomach cancer just weeks later. I underwent 4 surgeries and 4 rounds of chemo over the last 9 months. Luckily, my fight has now concluded and I am cancer free! On the other hand, my father is still fighting this disease with rounds of chemo continuing every two week. 

Although there were many challenges and unexpected turns throughout the journey, I tried to stay as upbeat and optimistic as possible throughout the process. I have learned that I am incredibly strong, my body bounces back really well from surgery, and that I have the most amazing village of family and friends around me. 

I can't thank everyone enough for the cards, texts, gifts, donations, and meals. So many people reached out from all facets of my life to help support Dani and I. I heard from families of students that I had taught many years ago, and childhood friends from camp that I hadn't connected with in 20+ years. The Capital Camps, JDS, and Beverly Farms communities all did so much to help my family; from meals, to a family photo shoot in Disney, to financial donations, and sweet letters and a book from my students; everything touched my heart so very much!

To my closest circle of family and friends, I could not have done this without you! You cheered me up when I was down, drove me back and forth to all the doctor appointments, babysat Jason, and held my hand through surgeries, hospital stays, and chemotherapy. Thank you from the bottom of my heart; I love you all so much. 

I also need to take a moment to thank the amazing doctors and nurses who saved my life! A special thank you to Dr. Rachel Brem who took my call back in March, looked at my scans at 9pm on her own personal time, and arranged to biopsy me herself the very next day. Many thanks to Dr. Christine Teal, Dr. Bharat Ranganath, and Dr. Caroline Hendricks; you all provided me with the best care over the past 9 months. 

And now, I must take a moment to encourage everyone to make sure you're up to date with all screenings. Luckily my cancer was caught early and was treatable due to bi-yearly screening and genetic testing. I highly encourage genetic testing; scientists are continuously finding new genetics linked to different cancers. This can help you get the proper screenings consistently and stay on top of your health. 

2025 wasn't all bad! Jason took his first steps and said "Mama" for the first time!!! Eitan graduated elementary school and Julie celebrated her golden birthday with us. I am closing this chapter of my life and moving on to what I hope is a healthy and happy 2026! Happy New Year to all!!!