LAUREN

I am one tough chick.

Wow…it took me a long time to be able to write those words without feeling embarrassed, self-conscious or arrogant.

I’ve motorbiked for two months around India, backpacked solo through Asia and Europe and, most recently, hiked to Everest Base Camp, deep in the Nepalese Himalayas. What made me realise how tough I was though came on a regular Friday afternoon after a typical week at work.

I was diagnosed with Stage 1b1 cervical cancer at the age of 30.

Having always had regular pap smears, we were initially convinced that it couldn’t be as bad as it sounded. That it would be a short cancer experience. I had no idea just how tough I would need to be. Two surgeries and a cycle of IVF later, and with at least chemotherapy and another surgery to come, my cancer palaver is ongoing.

I have felt every emotion under the sun. The expected ones like anger, fear, sadness and grief. And the unexpected ones like envy, apathy and immense gratitude. Oh, and guilt…so much guilt.

The people in my life have been incredible. I honestly never knew how loved I was until this whole cancer thing marched into my life. Flowers, books, messages, phone calls, visits, outings and that only scratches the surface. But I’ve also had some people who, I’m sure meant well, upset me pretty badly. So, I leave you with a little advice for anyone who knows anyone who’s going through cancer.

Don’t tell them the story of your uncle who had chemotherapy and now looks like shit. Don’t tell them of the alternate therapy you read about on the internet. Don’t tell them about your grandpa that died of cancer. Don’t tell them that everything happens for a reason.

Instead, sit by their side and ride that rollercoaster with them. Be there for the highs and the inevitable lows that follow because, although they’re One Tough Chick, the lemons life throws at you are easier to swallow when you’re surrounded by friends with tequila.