A mother of eight faced unimaginable challenges when she lost her job and was diagnosed with cancer within months. At just 37 years old, she navigated the complexities of parenting while undergoing treatment for lymphoma, demonstrating resilience in the face of adversity.
In September 2024, the author lost her position as a software developer due to a workforce reduction after nearly two years with the company. This abrupt change cut the family’s income in half, placing immense financial pressure on her household, which included children aged 4 to 19. Despite this setback, she initially believed she could find another job quickly while managing the family’s needs.
As the months passed, the stress of job loss began to take its toll, but the author dismissed her symptoms as typical stress-related issues. After battling illnesses like the flu and shingles, she noticed a lump in her groin that began to grow. Initially attributing it to a pulled muscle from exercise, she sought medical advice. Upon examination, a doctor suggested it was likely an inguinal hernia, leading to a referral for surgery.
By the time she received medical attention, the lump had grown to the size of a plum, causing significant discomfort. On May 4, 2025, she visited the emergency room, where a CT scan revealed the shocking diagnosis: several swollen lymph nodes, indicating cancer.
“This was a moment that changed everything,” she recalls. That night, she grappled with the devastating news alone in the hospital, her thoughts consumed by concerns for her eight children and her husband. When she returned home, the family faced another setback; their car was repossessed due to missed payments, underscoring the financial strain they were under.
May turned into a whirlwind of hospital visits and treatment plans. A biopsy confirmed she had Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma, and subsequent scans revealed the cancer’s progression. On June 5, 2025, she began chemotherapy, all while managing the daily responsibilities of raising her children.
During this challenging time, her husband emerged as a crucial support system, balancing full-time work and household duties. The family had to rely on community resources, including food banks and school district assistance programs, to make ends meet. Although initially hard to accept, the author recognized the importance of these safety nets.
On September 18, 2025, she celebrated a significant milestone by ringing the bell to signify her cancer-free status. A follow-up PET scan on October 21 confirmed no evidence of the disease. Reflecting on her journey, she acknowledges the profound impact of the past year on her life and her family.
She emphasizes the importance of recognizing symptoms that may be dismissed as stress and the need to seek help when necessary. The experience taught her that anyone can face sudden life changes, regardless of how well they plan or work to support their families.
As she continues to process her journey, the author remains committed to advocating for awareness around the realities of cancer and the support available for families in need. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of resilience, community support, and the strength found in family bonds.
