Why June Means So Much to Me
A Cancer Survivor's Reflection
June is a month marked not only by the arrival of summer but also by a powerful tribute to human strength, determination, and hope.
It is National Cancer Survivor Month, a time dedicated to celebrating the millions of individuals who have faced a cancer diagnosis and come out the other side as survivors.
For me, June holds even deeper meaning: it’s my birthday month. Each year, as I celebrate my birth, I also celebrate my rebirth as a thyroid cancer survivor. This personal connection makes National Cancer Survivor Month especially important to me, symbolizing resilience, renewal, and the gift of life.
As someone who has personally walked this path, I understand the deep impact cancer can have on every aspect of your life. My journey, like so many others, was filled with fear, uncertainty, and ultimately, resilience. Sharing this from both a personal and broader perspective allows me to connect deeply with the stories of other survivors and to honor the incredible strength that defines us all.
Being a survivor isn't just about finishing treatment. It starts the moment you hear, "You have cancer." From that point on, every appointment, every test result, and every quiet fear becomes part of your story. When I was diagnosed, everything changed in an instant. Plans were put on hold, and life shifted into survival mode. But in that struggle, I discovered a new kind of strength.
Cancer leaves its mark long after the physical healing ends.
Many survivors, like me, deal with fatigue, lingering side effects, and the emotional toll that never fully goes away. The anxiety that comes before follow-up scans and test results is real and recurring. Even when you "look fine," the invisible battles continue. You never stop wondering will the cancer come back.
Yet there's also beauty in survival.
I found community, connection, and courage in sharing my story and hearing others say, "Me too." Survivors are everywhere—inspiring and resilient. From young parents balancing treatment with parenting, to teens who turn their pain into purpose, their stories remind us what strength really looks like.
National Cancer Survivor Month is a time to celebrate those stories, including my own. It’s a chance to reflect, to honor caregivers, and to raise awareness about the continued needs of survivors. If you know someone who has faced cancer, I urge you to truly listen. Your presence can be a lifeline. And if you can contribute in any way—by advocating for better care, supporting research, or simply showing up—you’re not just helping one person. You’re helping all of us build a future filled with hope, compassion, and possibility.
As a thyroid cancer survivor, I am living proof of that strength. And I carry with me the stories of others—those still fighting, those we’ve lost, and those thriving today. Let us honor them—not just this month, but always. Let us continue to build a world where cancer is not a death sentence, but a challenge that can be met with courage, support, and the unwavering belief in tomorrow.
