The Power of Advocacy & How I am using it to close the gap on cancer!

If I had a quarter for every time someone’s jaw dropped when I told them I was diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma at the age of 21, I would be a multi-millionaire. To make it even more interesting, I was misdiagnosed months prior with a fibroid tumor while pregnant. Wait, I'm not finished; the average patient of this cancer is a white male between the ages of 65-70 and typically living about 18 months after being diagnosed. It seemed like the odds were stacked against me, but I had no choice but to advocate for myself to get the best treatment and, ultimately, LIVE! I am blessed to say that I am a 17-year-old and counting peritoneal mesothelioma survivor, thriving in survivorship. The day I began to ask those hard questions, speak up about things I disagreed with, and become active in my plan of care was when my crazy faith kicked in overdrive! Having a rare cancer with not a lot of options for specialists or treatments pushed me to create my path to obtain a better quality of life and more prolonged survival. Advocacy involves using one's voice and taking action to create positive change. I strongly believe in the power of advocacy and its ability to bring about meaningful change in society.

Throughout the years, I have collaborated with various cancer organizations as a spokesperson and writer for The Mesothelioma Center. As a cancer survivor myself, I understand the importance of advocacy in the fight against this disease. Through my work, I have had the opportunity to share my story on social media platforms, taking part in Miles for Meso and doing my part in spreading awareness on asbestos exposure and something that’s near and dear to my heart: mental health awareness in women with cancer. I have been able to connect with others who are going through similar experiences and offer them hope, support, and guidance. I am transparent and write about my experience, even if it's something no one else will speak about because I know someone out there will read it, and it will be just what they need to hear.

I want to point out that it didn't happen overnight, and closing the gap on cancer won't either! But I know that my advocacy work helps the cause. For the gap to be closed on cancer, we must advocate collectively, and this is one of the reasons why World Cancer Day is special to me. As cancer survivors and caregivers, we show others that you can achieve something that may seem unattainable. By sharing your story of how you made it through, you are helping others. We are using our voices to make positive medical and policy changes. 

I strongly encourage anyone passionate about patient advocacy to participate in any way they can. Whether volunteering at a local cancer center, organizing a fundraiser, or even sharing your story on social media, every little bit helps. Make your mark on this World Cancer Day! Your advocacy efforts can be a powerful way to make a positive and lasting impact on the lives of those fighting cancer. Together, we can make a difference in closing the gap on cancer!