It’s the first October that came and went since I was diagnosed that I haven’t felt like celebrating my survival.  We all know October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.  It was now my 9th October since my diagnosis and in the previous years, I was pink and proud, sharing so much, especially if I could help others.

 

I’ve never had survivor's guilt, and I am not sure entirely how I am feeling right now, but I know it’s not celebratory.   I also know the importance of early detection and doing what I can to get the word out there but for right now, as a new single, solo mom - the only parent since the loss of my boy's dad to cancer, it all feels like too much.  

 

We are still on quite a journey.

 

So as I stand here,  wishing I had more to say about Breast Cancer, for me, right now, it’s hard to celebrate, but I am proud to share another survivor’s success and all she’s doing to help so many.  I know I am not alone in these ups and downs, it is all part of the journey.  And hopefully even sharing this, will help one of you….

You may recognize Kristen Dahlgren from her 30 years working in news on television, reporting for the Today Show and NBC Nightly News winning the prestigious Edward R Morrow award and nominated for an Emmy.  Perhaps her biggest and most important role thus far is as the Founder of Cancer Vaccine Coalition.  After going through her own Breast Cancer Journey in 2019, Kristen researched cancer as she would a story and found that vaccines were in the works and possible.  

Kristen is another example of how one person, one idea can make a difference.  She launched the Cancer Vaccine Coalition and is already making an impact.

 

 

In case you missed it, my son, Jaylan Fisch started a group together with My Cancer Family in collaboration with  Cancer Support Community (Greater NY/CT at Gilda's Club).  It is a virtual group for teens who are living with the loss of a loved one to cancer called Teens Joining Forces After Loss.

 

If you know anyone who would like to join the group, please reach out and if you would like to support this group, and make sure it's here for those who need it, the money goes directly to operating costs through the non-profit, please support here!

 

This social group for teens, ages 14-18, meets twice monthly on Tuesdays at 7:00 PM, and is facilitated by Olivia Edelman, Teen Life Coach, who also lost her parents to Cancer.

 

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If you are interested in attending, please contact Jennifer Ricca, CTF Manager at jricca@cscnyct.org

 

The sessions are free to all.  All participants will be required to complete a brief intake form before starting.