My breast cancer journey began in September 2013. My husband had just returned from a two-year military deployment to Afghanistan, and our four children were 9, 7, and 2-year-old twins. When I found a lump while nursing, I assumed it was mastitis—but tests revealed Stage III breast cancer involving my lymph nodes. Overnight, life became a whirlwind of chemotherapy, radiation, a bilateral mastectomy and reconstruction. It was an incredibly hard time!

In October 2022, nearly a decade later, a routine colonoscopy led to another shock—five masses on my liver. A biopsy confirmed it was the same cancer, now Stage IV metastatic breast cancer. The diagnosis was devastating, and I struggled with staying out of the dark places, worrying about how many years I had left and what I might miss in the future. It was a challenge to leave behind the guilty feeling of “I should have been living like it was going to come back.” Over time, I learned to refocus on living each day with purpose, presence, and gratitude.

My job became living the healthiest life I could – working on my spiritual, physical and emotional wellbeing. Nurturing myself through yoga, dancing, acupuncture, counseling, walking, healthy diet, and meditation all became my focus. In 2024 a women’s retreat in Colombia reignited my sense of joy and connection. Standing on the streets of Cartagena, I realized that I wanted to share this feeling and experience I had with other women who are also on their own cancer journeys – sharing and supporting each other to continue LIVING each day with adventure and grace.

From this- ChimaSol Journeys was created: a travel and wellness company for women with all stages of cancer who seek meaningful, supportive adventures with others who truly understand. As I have gone through my own cancer journey, I realize that women need connection, empowerment, and the chance to rediscover joy through sisterhood and exploration, leaving behind daily responsibilities and medical appointments.

Travel and community have become my medicine. They remind me that even in the face of uncertainty, life is still meant to be lived—with courage, curiosity, and love. Let’s live our best lives and journey together!

ChimaSol Website- https://chimasoljourneys.com/

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/chimasoljourneys/

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