As we each move through life, we often forget to slow down, to be in the moment, and to check in with ourselves. To really be present with the here and now, and the person we are in that moment.

This last year especially has reminded me how important that is.

After learning that I was beginning yet another health journey—going to battle with cancer—being present became my focus. Staying present. And also giving myself grace in the moments when my mind drifts to the past or the future. I am human, living with real feelings. All the feelings. All the thoughts that come when stepping into an unknown health journey and battle with cancer.

This year has been battle after battle after battle. But this beautiful, bad*** warrior came ready to fight.

I knew my biggest weapon would be leaning into my sources of strength—finding joy in life, making space for my feelings, advocating for my needs, getting outside, and staying mindful and present.

One of my greatest sources of strength is spending time with the youth and my colleagues at Friends of the Children.

As a Professional Mentor, I’m grateful that every day brings new possibilities—challenges, celebrations, connections, and experiences. The relationships we build with youth in our community are priceless for them, but they are also priceless for us as mentors. These weekly connections keep me grounded in the present. They remind me to keep learning, growing, laughing, and living with joy, bravery, courage, and patience.

Another important part of my journey has been advocating for my health.

You know your body best. If something doesn’t feel right, speak up. Share your concerns with your doctor. For me, it meant talking with my doctors about my family health history and the changes I was experiencing. It meant paying attention to my body, asking questions, and pushing for further scans and investigations.

Leaning into my sources of strength: family, friends, colleagues, the youth I mentor, and other bad*** warriors in this world has carried me through the hardest moments.

To anyone on their own health journey: please know that you are a bad*** too. Strength, courage, resilience, humility, perseverance, and love live within all of us.

When I look back at everything this past year has asked of me, I’m honestly in awe of myself. The patience. The acceptance. The strength to stay present. The ability to find joy while also grieving and navigating a life that suddenly feels very different.

My hope for 2026 is simple: celebration, restoration, adventure, and joy.