My cancer journey - Twenty years later!

 My Cancer Journey

In January 2006, while pregnant with my fifth child, I discovered a lump in my breast. Initially dismissed by my doctor, it grew rapidly. A biopsy revealed invasive ductal carcinoma—an aggressive breast cancer.

I had surgery while pregnant, and fortunately, my baby was born healthy. Six days later, I began chemotherapy, followed by 43 radiation treatments. My hair fell out, I was exhausted, and life with five kids didn’t pause—but I survived.

Cancer changed my life: it taught me to cherish every moment, see the bigger picture, and fight for my health. Today, I am grateful to be cancer-free and to have a loving family by my side.

Breast Cancer Awareness:

• Perform monthly self-exams

• Schedule annual clinical exams and mammograms

• Early detection saves lives—don’t wait

One in eight women will face breast cancer. Early action can make all the difference.

Commit (The Sweet Rom "Com") by Kortney Keisel - A Review

This was a sweet, second-chance rom-com novella with excellent banter (my absolute favorite) and lovable characters. Told in alternating past and present timelines, it’s filled with tender moments between Matt and Remi that were easy to fall for.

Set in beautiful Key West, the story brings the exes together for a mutual friends’ wedding—awkwardly sharing a hotel suite after having RSVP’d while still together. Forced proximity plus unresolved feelings makes for plenty of sparks.

Remi can be frustratingly self-absorbed, but her insecurity and fear of commitment add emotional depth that feels messy and real rather than just cute. Matt, on the other hand, is patient, sincere, and wonderfully steady. Despite its short length, the story balances lighthearted humor with genuine vulnerability, showing that love—and healing—aren’t always easy.

I give Commit 4 out of 5 stars. If you love second-chance romances with witty banter, chemistry, and a vacation-like setting, this novella is a sweet, satisfying read with a meaningful message about love, patience, and working through hard things.