Kodomo

50 feels different when you’re living with metastatic breast cancer.

I was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer at 40. Metastatic at 44. Incurable became part of my vocabulary long before I was ready for it.

There’s grief in that. Fear too. But also gratitude — deep gratitude for the chemo that keeps me here, for the doctors and nurses who keep fighting alongside me, and for every ordinary moment I still get to experience.

I’ve learned not to wait for the “perfect time” to celebrate, travel, laugh too hard, wear the outfit, eat the cake, or say yes to the plans. Life in between scans is still life. Beautiful, messy, meaningful life.

So here’s to 50. Not the version I imagined years ago, but one I’m incredibly grateful to reach. 💕