When Life Throws a Curveball: Supporting My Friend Through Her Breast Cancer Journey

This year, I found out that one of my very good friends was diagnosed with breast cancer. The news hit me hard, like a punch to the gut. Even though I haven’t personally battled cancer, the experience brought back memories of my own health scare - the fear, the uncertainty, and the waiting. I knew I had to be there for her in whatever way I could, drawing on my own journey to lean in and help her navigate this difficult time.

From the moment she told me, I felt a mix of emotions - shock, sadness, and a deep desire to support her. Watching someone I care about go through something so challenging makes you feel helpless at times, but I quickly realised that my role wasn't to have all the answers or fix anything - it was to simply be there. Whether that going with her to a chemo appointment, or just being a shoulder on tough days to celebrating small victories along the way, I knew I wanted to be the best friend I could be through her fight.

Though I didn’t face cancer myself, I couldn’t help but feel like I could relate in some small way. When I went through my own health ordeal years ago, there was that lingering fear in the back of my mind that I might not have much time left. Though our paths are different, the emotional rollercoaster felt familiar. I leaned into that shared vulnerability, knowing that showing up for her, offering support, and understanding some of that mental battle could help in even the smallest ways.

Her bravery and strength through every step of her chemo treatments has been nothing short of inspiring. Watching her face this beast head-on, with a quiet but fierce determination, has encouraged me to look at my own life with a fresh perspective. In the face of such adversity, she’s shown me what true courage looks like, and it’s lit a fire in me to keep pushing forward, making the most of each day, and striving to live my own bold, authentic life.

As she nears the end of her chemo stretch with great results, I couldn’t be prouder. She’s not only endured the physical toll but has come out the other side with a whole new outlook on life - a perspective that radiates gratitude, positivity, and strength. Her transformation has been a source of inspiration in itself.

Being part of her journey has been a reminder of how precious life is and how much we owe it to ourselves to live fully, boldly, and without fear. I’m so incredibly thankful that she’s doing well, and I’ll continue to be by her side as she moves through the next stages of recovery.

Her story has pushed me to re-evaluate my own goals, choices, and how I want to show up in the world, thus the creation of this website and my ongoing commitment to help others through life's journey, no matter their circumstances.

Through her, I’ve learned that even in the darkest times, there is light, strength, and hope - and that’s something worth living for every single day.

* if you are the person I am talking about in this blog - I love you and am so proud of you! and if you aren't, but are going through something, I believe in you, you've got this and I am here for you.