I can't believe I'm even writing this...but I applied to my first graduate program yesterday.
I'm still living with brain cancer, even with a mass up there, chugging along on my IDH1 inhibitor since 6/19, but I've finally realized how resilient I am. That I shouldn't hold back on my dreams. Wow, what a concept, to just go for it! I'm great at that with cancer, now it's time to translate it further into all aspects of my life.
I know that even if I have to do more treatments, more brain surgeries, that I will be okay, and that I will always strive for more, to actualize my dreams in every moment. It's SO exciting!!
I'm nervous as hell, but in the best possible way. The program you ask? (Oh wait, no one did, and that's ok, I'm an over share-er.) It's a Masters of Social Work, with the ultimate goal of being able to assist cancer patients more thoroughly.
I've been counseling patients, connecting them with resources for over 14 years, and hopefully, soon, I can do it professionally.
I can't believe I'm doing this, I kind of want to hide my face. Instead, I will smile from ear to ear, and enjoy my life to the fullest. I will take every opportunity to live and experience it all.
Please wish me luck!
You are brave, tenacious, beautiful, strong and you will succeed. When you were little, your most common statement to me was 'I do it myself Mama' and by golly you do. I'm so excited and proud. You are much loved.
ReplyDeleteThis is the BEST news, you are a huge inspiration to so many and the most amazing resource for those in need!! You've got this!
ReplyDeleteOh Jess, my eyes are welled up with tears reading this!!! I’m so incredibly excited for you, proud of you and in awe of you! Below the teary eyes is a huge smile! I hope that this is one of the most beautiful journeys of your life! Your amazing heart and mind is and will continue to infinitely be the most precious gift!! I love you!!! Forever!!!!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great next adventure! You have already had a huge impact on patients and the medical community. A perfect advocate and communicator to improve care and outcomes. Does it get any better?! I love this plan, can’t wait to hear all about it!!! ❤️❤️❤️ -Lorraine
ReplyDeleteGood luck you beautiful freaking human being!!! 😍🥹 I love you so much, my friend!
ReplyDeleteI am so glad to find this blog! I saw your video I'm pretty sure shortly after it was posted back in 2018 and you'd cross my mind from time to time and I'd wonder how you were doing but was unable to find much as far as updates. Anyway, reading your most recent post was one of the highlights of my month! So glad to hear you're thriving so well!
ReplyDeleteI've said this before that you are a gifted writer Jess, and it looks like you're adding a profession to harmonize with your talents. Bless you and your entire family. Love always, Susan
ReplyDeletecongratulations with your new adventure. Women are so powerful. I love you to pieces and see you are back online! Sylvia A
ReplyDeleteHow exciting!!! You will do great girl. Keep us posted on your adventure into graduate school!
ReplyDeleteThat’s amazing! You will have so much to give your clients through having been dealt this journey. I was 2 years into my own brain cancer diagnosis (grade 3 astrocytoma) when I was accepted into my mental rehabilitation and mental health counseling graduate program and 3 years later i graduated with my master’s, passed my state licensure exam, and and am working in my residency. You got this!!!
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