A Diagnosis That Changed Everything

Life has a way of surprising us—sometimes in the most difficult ways. Recently, I received a diagnosis that has changed everything: stage 4 metastatic cervical cancer. The words themselves felt heavy, final, and terrifying. Suddenly, I was no longer just living my day-to-day life—I was a patient, navigating tests, treatments, new doctors, and the emotions that come with such news.

And yet, even as I walk through this challenging season, I find myself searching for silver linings. They may not erase the pain or the fear, but they remind me that beauty, gratitude, and strength still exist in abundance.

Holding Two Truths

I am learning to hold two truths at once:

• This journey is undeniably hard.
• And I am still here—living, loving, and finding reasons to hope.

Some days, my body feels like it is failing me. Treatments leave me drained, my hair falls out in clumps, and pain is a constant companion. But in those same days, I notice how deeply my friends and family show up for me. I see how my sons carry pieces of my strength in them. I realize how precious each sunrise feels, how deeply meaningful it is to laugh, to rest, to connect.

I also remind myself that I am more than this diagnosis. Cancer does not get to define me—it only sharpens my resolve to keep living fully, however that may look from day to day.

The Words That Carry Me

One phrase has carried me through these past weeks: I will persevere. These words inspired me to write a poem, a promise to myself and a reminder of the courage that still beats in my heart.

I Will Persevere

When the night feels endless,

and shadows weigh me down,

I will reach for the light,

even when it’s only a spark.

When fear whispers loudly,

and pain takes up its space,

I will steady my soul,

anchored in grace.

Though storms may rage,

and trials draw near,

I will not surrender—

I will persevere.

Finding Silver Linings

Sharing this is not easy, but it feels important. My journey may look different than I ever imagined, but it is still mine. I hope that by writing about it, others who are facing their own challenges will feel less alone and more encouraged to search for the silver linings in their storms.

For now, I take it one day at a time. Some days are messy, others are full of gratitude, but all are part of this path I’m walking.

And through it all, I will persevere.

The Heart of Silver Lining Streaming

At Silver Lining Streaming, my goal has always been to share stories, experiences, and journeys that uplift and inspire. Now, more than ever, that mission feels deeply personal. Life may not always go as planned, but there are still moments of joy, discovery, and connection waiting for us. My hope is that by sharing both my travels and my health journey, others will be reminded that even in the hardest chapters, there are silver linings to be found.