I’ve been in my share of toxic relationships—ones where I didn’t respect myself enough to set boundaries or walk away from disrespect. I kept hoping this time would be different. But it never was.Romantic relationships that were abusive. Friendships that were one-sided. But the hardest? Family—the people who should love you unconditionally.When you don’t receive…
Reading Dead Mom Walking by Rachel Marlow felt like looking into a mirror I had been avoiding. As someone battling stage 3 rectal cancer, I am facing the very surgery Rachel’s mother, Elaine, refused. Like her, I have struggled with fear—the fear of losing control, my dignity, and the life I once knew. The thought…
I know that an indefinite suspension of school took some by surprise although I’m sure most saw it coming even if they were hoping for a quick return. I know that many are wondering how it will work, how they will manage, how they will cope. You will. This is new for all of us,…
In just five days, I’ll be heading into surgery to remove my cancer. PIMA (pain in my ass), my tumor has shrunk to just under 3 cm, but because she’s less than 1 cm from the anus, my surgeon won’t know until he’s in there if I’ll be able to have a reconnection that will…
July 8, 2024 In today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving professional landscape, setting high expectations is more than a management strategy—it’s a cornerstone of unlocking hidden potential and driving motivation. When we challenge ourselves and our team members with ambitious goals, we ignite a powerful force that propels us toward excellence. Understanding the psychological underpinnings of this…
I always thought I understood resilience. Life has tested me more times than I can count—poverty, abuse, addiction, loss. I have fought through it all, clawing my way forward when the world told me to lie down and surrender. But nothing has tested me quite like this. Stage 3 rectal cancer. A full APR surgery….