Colon Cancer at 34

Monday through Friday I start the school day listening to "This is Me" by Super Simple Songs.  My autistic kindergarteners, aides, and I point out all of our body parts as we learn who we are.  At home and in the doctor's office, that phrase takes a different meaning for me.  Maybe it was getting older, hitting surgical menopause, or all the struggles that come with cancer, but I've learned who I am.  I only care to be judged by the content of my character, not by pieces that don't matter.  I learned who I am in reference to medicine... I would rather deal with chemo rash or a port poke than put on a cream.  I will choose lifestyle changes like installing faucets that are color activated by temperature and hop from one new rug to another over wearing socks when cold sensitivity exists.  My brain requires time and space to work on more issues, like readjusting to socks, buttons on pants, and new roles. I sprained my ankle the day before an oncology appo...

 The night before it all began Last year I remember being so thankful for January 2nd off and the extra day to plan the year before returning to my teaching job.  Little did I know that was the last normal day.   January 3rd 2024 started like any other day.  Finished work and took my post work nap... which had gotten longer but I was also working up to 11 hours after school each week.  When I went to get up from my nap I felt the pain.  Sharp and around my abdomen.  I rotated from one side to the other, seeing if I could remove the muscle tension and reduce the pain.  It didn't work so I stayed still and thought.  Considered the options: New pain, but still at a level 5.  No kids in the house and nothing scheduled to do.  After 5 so my doctor wasn't available and the urgent care was likely just to send me to the hospital.  So I considered what I needed to pack.  But every other time I've packed a bag has been for my k...