Ruta, Lithuania

Twice I was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, at the ages of 22 and 30. I survived. This is a rare cancer, so it was challenging to find people of similar age in my country who had been affected by this disease. I was curious about their experiences and how they overcame the difficulties. The incredibly demanding treatment, which required immense strength, often pushed aside any desire to live like my peers. Suddenly, your normal life is gone, and you have to focus entirely on treatment, living in the Here and Now.

My social life became completely isolated, so I started writing a public diary to share my experience in an effort to overcome that isolation. Writing helped me connect with others who would write to me, sharing their stories and experiences. The support from people strengthened me—it constantly felt like their encouraging words, prayers, and kind gestures gave me strength when I ran out of it.

Dealing with cancer at a young age is difficult because it is a time when people are usually completing their studies, starting their careers, planning families, and imagining a "happily ever after." Meanwhile, you feel as though you're watching your life from the sidelines, walking on a thin line between life and death, uncertain which way the scales will tip. That is terrifying. Loneliness often creeps in.

Because of my story, I founded an organization that surprises other cancer patients with small gifts, showing care and providing support during difficult moments. By sharing my story, I aim to bring hope and show that life does not end with a cancer diagnosis.

WE ARE SO MUCH MORE THAN THAT!