When I was a high school senior who had just survived a heart attack and leg amputation, in need of a heart transplant, I had to make a decision about whether I was going to be public about my story. I decided that yes, I would be, because it was part of who I am and how I now view the world, and I saw how it could help inspire people. But when I faced cancer in college and post grad, I struggled. I didn’t want people to feel sorry for me. I didn’t want them thinking I was fragile or that it was a death sentence. I limited what I told to close friends and family, and became a vocal cancer advocate AFTER I was in the clear.

So when I was diagnosed with endometrial (uterine) cancer, I debated what to do. And the more I read, the more I realized that while this is the most common cancer of the reproductive organs, it’s fairly uncommon in women my age. I recently had a hysterectomy, which 1 in 3 women will have before age 60 (for various reasons), but many women, especially young women, don’t talk about. And I want to help change that. Because the good news is that by listening to your body and catching it early, you can be cured.

So I ask this of you - please do not send any notes of sympathy. Instead, CELEBRATE with me that we caught this thing and that we’re going to get rid of it. CHEER ME ON as I become a three-time cancer survivor, and if you feel so inclined, SHARE this message so that other women will know that they are not alone. Many thanks for your support!