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Cancer Journal #6…Tackling The Colossal Elephant, Cancer

March 31, 2026 hardwarelifewife Leave a comment

A new ornament on my Christmas tree this past year… full of symbolism and inspiration for my cancer journey

The African Male Elephant can weigh up to 14,000 pounds, making it the largest of all land animals! A female elephant weight is a bit smaller, coming in at about 6,000 to 8,000 pounds on average. Regardless of the weight, the elephant is a huge animal! Experiencing Cancer can be a heavy experience similar to the weight of an elephant.

Receiving a cancer diagnosis and embarking on a health journey like facing cancer is similar to tackling a colossal elephant. The old joke goes “how do you eat an elephant??? One bite at a time … What really does this old phrase really indicate??? Navigating the cancer experience requires bite-sized steps, breaking it down into manageable parts allowing progress, much like the elephant metaphor suggests… not eating the elephant itself.

Experiencing Cancer is the very similar to eating an elephant…You tackle it one day at a time. Focusing your energy on the most pressing task at hand, learning as you go through it… based upon my own personal experience. The “Cancer Elephant” is a massive task to tackle.

These cute little elephant watering cans are found at WCH

What’s it like eating that “cancer elephant” one bite at a time??? 🐘🐘Here’s a quick look at my personal experience with my “cancer elephant”… one day at a time.

–Initial scans and tests to confirm diagnosis (multiple doctor visits/tests)… I think I lost count of the number of trips between home and Winston Salem between early November to March 2026.

–Meeting new oncology doctors… I have a few different ones in my cancer journey… (oncology surgical , medical oncology, radiation oncology)these are the ones I have met so far in my own cancer journey. After I completed radiation treatments, I will continue to see my medical oncology doctor moving forward every 3 months. I will also follow up with my surgeon early this summer. Mammogram/ MRI’s will probably alternate every 6 months.

Female elephants-creating a perfect sisterhood, more coming up as you read on

-“Dealing with the Elephant in the Room” Cancer impacts family members. Beginning to tell family and friends about your new cancer diagnosis and trying to help them to understand your ongoing treatment is a necessary step. It is essential to note…Cancer patients move forward from one appointment to the next, often waiting several days or maybe even weeks in between, before the next test or appointment occurs. This waiting process can be unsettling to loved ones who would love to have the full “cancer puzzle” picture in their mind. The waiting game on all the “puzzle pieces” to come together. This is what happens sometimes when multiple tests/scans are needed in order to move forward with confirmation of a cancer diagnosis. It can be taxing for some people who wish to have full “puzzle picture” in mind.

–“Eating the Elephant one bite at a time”…Reading and Researching to learn more about your specific cancer

I have read extensively about Invasive Ductal Carcinoma. And the key dietary changes as a new cancer patient that was highly recommended. Lastly, the lack of estrogen within my own body moving forward (after treatment)… slowly digesting the “cancer elephant chunks” all the while, trying new to apply what I have learned so far. This research process is in my ongoing timeline into the future as my cancer path changes.

–Navigating and using your Cancer Resources Did you know that an elephant can use its own body resources effectively to cool down, swim, eat, and to protect itself?

At my cancer diagnosis appointment, I was given a large amount of information about breast cancer. It was impossible to digest it all at once. But luckily the information came with three nurse navigators to help me. They helped me initially by making key appointments with my new medical oncology team.

I’m still able to use these three ladies as concerns have arisen, and they have help me with those questions like dietary needs, and integrative cancer medicine, and more!

Breast cancer Facebook groups have been helpful to me as people are facing similar challenges with cancer. I have been able to gain a few insights within this group as I have moved through this process.

This was an amazing resource which broke down each part of the cancer treatment process

–“Elephant Diet” …Implementing healthy dietary changes

I have learned that experiencing cancer and cancer treatments changes your bodies metabolic needs. Cancer creates a weakened immune system which in turn, facilitates the need for a healthy diet to strengthen your body. Also, a healthy diet can help in maintaining muscle mass, and help with weight management.

Elephants eat a variety of plants, fruits and twigs to sustain themselves. Now, after my cancer diagnosis, over half of my plate is mostly vegetables! This new change is a continuous marathon, that will hopefully continue for years ahead.

Cancer Journal #5- Simple Switches for a Lifetime of Health

–Grocery Shopping with a true Whole Foods mission …For the last several months, I have been purchasing foods to defeat cancer and reading labels like a cancer superhero! We all three (in our household), flip the nutrition labels over and often discuss the label contents. AND Turning labels over and reading contents in the drug store too! Estrogen can be found in skin care or beauty products.

–Preparing for surgery and surgical recovery … There were a few key essential items that I needed prior to my surgery. Those items were purchased prior to my surgery date in early January. After my cancer surgery, it took about 2 weeks for me to recover. As my energy level increased slowly, the residual pain/pressure subsided from the surgery.

–“Drink like an Elephant”Preparing for Radiation Therapy…My cycle of radiation did not begin until after surgery healing and oncology follow ups had occurred. Once radiation began, I personally experienced tiredness that stayed with me for several days after treatments.

Hydration helped me tremendously as well as walking a bit after radiation treatment each time. I tried to make sure that I had enough electrolytes and non-caffeinated drinks after radiation. Elephants can drink as much as 50 gallons a day of water!!! Wow!!! And we think that 8 full glasses of water a day is a lot!!!

Thankfully, the radiation treatments were spread out over a few weeks. The after effects of radiation treatments can last in body for a few weeks afterward… skin burns, irritation, redness, and tiredness.

A powerful combination… protein shakes, Sugar Free Gatorade, and water before and after radiation treatments

–Allowing time to Rest

Elephants can sleep standing up, but for a more relaxing deeper sleep they need to lie down for a few hours. This means that they are more vulnerable to a predator attack. Often elephants will not lie down unless they feel completely safe within their tribe. Luckily, that herd mentality is a strong force within the pack and active watch is kept to protect those who are sick or need the rest.

I quickly learned that cancer changes your energy levels and energy can fluctuate.. good energy days and bad days are common. I have found out that my body needs more restorative sleep in order to recover over the last few months of experiencing cancer.

My boys are definitely good at reading my body signals as well AND have encouraged me to rest as I need it. I’m definitely going to bed earlier and sleeping a bit later each day. My work schedule isn’t back up to normal yet due to this reason as my energy level fluctuates.

–“Think like an Elephant”Adjusting your mindset

Cancer IS life altering. Life definitely changes after Cancer. Just because active treatment is over doesn’t mean the cancer fight is over. Cancer Reoccurrence is always a concern for every cancer patient and survivor. The doctor appointments maybe fewer in number, but scans, bloodwork, medication can continue for several years afterward.

The Maintenance of a healthy lifestyle can help reduce risk of a cancer reoccurrence. Let’s chunk it down a bit more…

The elephant brain weighs anywhere from 10-12 pounds, and it is the largest brain of any land animal!!! The large temporal lobe of the elephant creates the ability of long term memory. Did you know that Elephants have the ability to remember an interaction with another elephant from years ago and an elephant can remember places they have traveled to before??? The essence… the memory of an elephant is sharp! So there is truth in the statement that an elephant never forgets!!

The same “elephant memory” is carried by a cancer patient /survivor. They never forget what they have been through and don’t wish to face another cancer reoccurrence.

That being said, some cancer survivors will continue to make the healthy lifestyle changes permanent, being a “mindful elephant” with the goal of trying to prevent a reoccurrence or relapse.

– Cancer Life after “active treatment”

What will life look at after surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, when all of the major “cancer stuff” is over???

Life in POST CANCER… I have learned Life after active treatment is an adjustment not only for yourself, but your body. The human body needs time to fully recover and heal from the stress of active cancer treatment. Often times the outside world assumes that life for a cancer survivor goes back to normal, because they no longer see the “visible parts” of the cancer journey after the day to day appointments disappear, and the visible treatments are over.

I understand this fact more intimately now that I’m seeing it for myself as well as my fellow cancer friends who have been through this process before me.

Ultimately changing that perception, along with carrying the weight of the“cancer elephant”, can be heavy. It’s just a bit messy.

For me personally, Post treatment cancer, will be adapting and finding a new “normal” in daily life while, allowing rest as I need it. AND adjusting to a new medication for the next five years.

I’ll write more about this in another blog post as my body has time to adjust and I meet my another new doctor, an Integrated Cancer Health in early April.

–NED Status… NED (No Evidence of Disease) This is a term/status that cancer patients want to ultimately achieve. No evidence of disease (cancer) present on scans, bloodwork or other results. This takes time to achieve and I’m looking forward to reaching this milestone. I’m cautiously optimistic that I’m getting closer to this milestone as surgery went well, and radiation is completely finished. Some people rank cancer survivorship at a 5 year mark after no reoccurrence has materialized.

-“Elephant Emotions” …Connecting with Other Cancer Survivors

Elephants have shown researchers that they have the ability to show a range of emotions like being able to show love, joy, empathy, compassion, and even grief.

In the wild, Female elephants tend to travel together in a herd working together for the good of the female pack. These females will circle around each other in times of distress, giving birth, or offering protection to the sick/weak from nearby predators. Female elephants have a strong bond amongst themselves and they consistently work together to rear the youngest elephants in the herd.

Similarly, Cancer survivors often circle around newly diagnosed cancer patients. These survivors offer kindness, friendship, compassion, and empathy as they begin this highly individualized cancer journey.

I’m very thankful to those cancer survivors who took time to help me navigate this journey. Thank you 💕.

My family members and friends who made me feel wrapped in love and prayers as I have navigated through this journey, I’m so grateful. 💕Thank you. I have appreciated your kind words, cards, messages, and prayers.

The Cancer journey can be uniquely different for each individual… from the type of cancer, how oncology doctors choose to treat it, and many other factors.

I’ll conclude by stating, cancer survivors all have one key thing in common.. tackling the colossal elephant of cancer, one day at a time, offering the gift of Grace to those who need it the most, even themselves. In some form, I think we all can use the elephant analogy and apply it in regard to our own daily lives.

Thank you to all who have helped me tackle this colossal cancer elephant, one day at a time. I’m so grateful for your kindness, love, and circling around me in my continuing cancer journey.

Footnote: I have now finished my active cancer treatment and have begun my medication phase for the next 5 years… medication until 2031! It’s been a bit of an adjustment due to managing some side effects, but I’m hopeful.

blogging, family, hardware store, Hardware Store Life, high touch surfaces, Home, Laundry Day, Laundry Day Tips, Laundry Room Organization, Life experiences, old hardware stores, Shop Local, southern living

Laundry Daze… All Washed Up and Drumming Up Excitement for a Job Well Done!

March 17, 2026 hardwarelifewife Leave a comment

Thankfully we have moved beyond the old washing tub but WCH has a variety of sizes if you need one

Doing the laundry can be a thankless task, especially when you are raising a family… leaving you in a bit of a daze. The laundry can pile up quickly if it is neglected. Then the questions begin…MOM… where is my favorite shirt ??? 😳 Have you ever been there?

A new WCH favorite t-shirt, now available in store!

I’m going to “lighten the load” a bit with this childhood memory. The Brady Bunch was an all time favorite show of mine growing up. Bobby, one of the youngest Brady children. In this laundry based episode, Bobby got his suit covered in mud, extremely dirty, and decided to wash it before his mom and Alice got home from shopping hoping to prevent the discussion he didn’t want to have with Mom.

Bobby put the dirty suit into the washing machine, then began to pour in the SAFE washing powder out of the box into the washer. He stopped momentarily, only to pause the flow of washing powders, then decided he needed the whole box😬. He sets the washing machine, and walks away. He cleans himself up, changes clothes, begins his homework. I think you know where this is going laundry wizards.

When Bobby returns downstairs, the laundry suds have already made it to the kitchen door. He enters the laundry room, and the suds are above his head, filling up the entire laundry room. Carol and Alice come home to find Bobby covered in suds!

Pick up your favorite laundry suds at WCH!!

Doing the laundry can be a monotonous task, and sometimes I might even feel like Bobby… washed away with suds. As I’m writing this blog post, I have one load washing, one load waiting in the laundry basket to be folded and put away, and two more loads sorted and waiting to go in after the first load finishes up 🤪.

One might would say the most glorious thing about finishing the laundry is the actual 5 seconds that the laundry baskets are actually empty! I feel that one! Yes, once the day comes to an end, the dirty clothes are back…. Leaving me to feel like surely there HAS to be more people living here that I don’t know about because 3 people surely can’t create this much laundry! 🤨

I will admit that the winter months are harder. The extra layers of clothing needed for warmth can make doing the laundry a more daunting task each week and one might think about “throwing in the towel”. But yes, that would create more laundry, right???

So the Question of the Day, is how to be efficient and productive with this ongoing, never ending cycle of laundry? 🧺 🧺🧺🧺🧺🧺🧺🧺🧺🧺🧺🧺🧺🧺🧺

Do you do laundry everyday or just a few times a week? I have found that if I try to do a bit of laundry each day, my “load” is lighter. If I wait a day or two into the week, the laundry seems to never get finished! Ugh!

Working in Laundry Room: A Few Things To Consider

Set up and have an organized, useable space to work. Don’t forget to Clean your laundry space… wipe down your machines, and laundry baskets! Use Lysol spray to disinfect your fabric baskets. Cleaning the laundry room is more than mopping the floor. The Laundry Room is often a high touch area in your home, just like your kitchen appliances are and frequently used technology items!

Lysol and Clorox wipes are available at WCH, easy cleaning tools for your laundry room tasks

2. Include an area for air drying clothes OR to hang clothes as they come out of dryer. I have found that if I hang up clothes as they come out of the dryer, laundry is a much easier task even if I wait until later to bring them up to the closets. And the side benefit, less ironing!

3. Do you have a system to deal with Lost socks and coins? Some people tuck socks into a mesh bag, others throw the lost socks into a basket to try to reunite them later… coins??? That’s an easy fix, use a mason jar or even a cute little basket holder to catch those odd ball things that fly out of pockets unknown to you!

A cute woven basket can add a pop of color to your laundry space, to catch those coins… available at WCH

4. Keep dryer vents clean and clear… keep a small laundry trash can handy for disposal of laundry lint. Your dryer hose should be cleaned out regularly!

Use a small galvanized metal bucket or a basket to catch those lost socks, or even a small plastic bucket… easy to carry around and doesn’t take up lots of space

**Clean out your dryer lint after each cycle. A deep clean of your vent system should be done at least twice a year.**

5. Leave the washer door open once you finish laundry for the day. This will help with odors and mildew buildup.

At the end of each washing day, I open my washer door and the detergent bin to reduce odors.

6. Lastly, set up a laundry system that every single person in your household can easily understand and use in your absence, especially if you are the main laundry guru. For example, everyone has a separate basket/bin to put away their own clothes, or each family member knows how to sort, use washer and dryer, and deal with laundry once if it finished in the dryer.

How to prevent a “washed out mess” in the Laundry Room:

Sort clothes by colors.
Read your labels and set your washing cycle accordingly.
Only fill washer 3/4 full so detergent can work efficiently. Also speaking of efficiency, Be mindful of how much detergent you use. If using a liquid detergent the recommended line on bottle cap is probably too much if load washing isn’t really dirty, or heavily soiled laundry.

Less plastics in laundry cycle! Try these laundry detergent cubes now available at WCH

4. Keep laundry supplies well stocked… laundry detergent, Oxygenated cleaner, and a good enzyme spray like a pre-treatment cleaner. I also keep Dawn detergent in my laundry room for oil based grease stains… I often deal with those type of stains fairly regularly in our household. Did you know that Wilkes County Hardware can keep you stocked on your laundry room essentials???

5. Pretreat stains prior to going in washer. Dawn detergent works well on grease or oily stains. Most Food stains can usually be removed by using an all purpose stain remover that is enzyme based. Dirt stains… borax, baking soda, Oxy, or washing powders can be helpful.

6. Wash and dry laundry with the actual weight of clothes in mind. For example, Towels and blue jeans are much heavier and will require more drying time. It is probably best not to wash these together. Spread the love… do two separate loads of these items! Lighter weight clothes should dry faster so you might want to consider a short, time dry cycle and take those out first as the heavier weight items continue to dry.

7. Make sure you have a system that works for your family when it comes to checking pockets. I personally don’t check pockets prior to doing laundry unless I hear the jingle going into the washer😳😬 We are all responsible for checking and cleaning out our own pockets in the Searcy household. But I’ll admit, sometimes I do find things like nuts, bolts, coins, box cutters, pocket knives, etc. The absolute worst, a Sharpie marker or pen!!! Ugh!!! No one wants to have clothes ruined by these!!! I’m speaking from my own personal experience!!

8. Have a laundry system in place that whole family can live by and understand!!! Everyone pitches in to help with the laundry here at our house. As it comes out of the dryer, we hang up clothes that need it. Socks, towels can be dumped into the laundry basket. Some families use a bin system for each person so they can put away their own clothes. The point is to get everyone involved because every family member has a vested interest in their own laundry!

9. Use dryer balls to reduce drying time. Another quick hack is to use an older dry bath towel and throw it into the dryer so clothes will dry faster.

My laundry day wish for you… hoping that it “all comes out in the wash” soon so you can enjoy those few beautiful moments when it’s all done! And remember, Wilkes County Hardware is here to help you when you are feeling all washed up and ready for a bit of laundry day success. 🧺

A new journey begins, blogging, breast cancer, Cancer, community, Everyday Angels, family, Hardware Store Life, journey in life, Life experiences, Resilence, seasons of life, southern living

Cancer Journal #2…The Everyday Angels

January 25, 2026 hardwarelifewife 1 Comment

You may have never heard of the Herdmans, especially if you haven’t read, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. It is a novel targeted towards younger children that I used to read aloud in my earliest years of teaching to my classes in the days leading up to the Christmas season.

It was always a wonderful read aloud story because the main characters were high spirited and dramatic. These spirited and unruly characters added to the fun.

I haven’t thought much about that book until this past year. Our local movie theater, The Liberty, featured a free movie, portraying the story, so we went to see it during the Christmas season. I laughed and I cried. It was a beautiful movie which I will add to my watch list each Christmas season.

The movie, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, was a beautiful story of Christmas, and how “Everyday Angels” are alive and well. These Angels walk among us offering gifts of kindness, compassion, and understanding and SO much more… You know these folks… they are the ones who are always there for you… your “Everyday Angels”.

The Herdman children desperately needed an “Everyday Angel” in the book, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. They had worked super hard in keeping all people out of their lives. They were tough, dirty, physically rough, bullies, and simply hard to deal with in most situations.

The movie we viewed revealed how the “Everyday Angels” who were patient with these highly spirited characters, empathetic, and had a determined willingness to teach The Herdmans children about the Christmas story.

As a result of that very small community of people who exhibited considerable efforts, these “Everyday Angels” in the movie, created a significant change in how The Herdman kids viewed others. This kind offering by “Everyday Angels”, gave The Herdman kids a chance at redemption, a chance at a new beginning, and an opportunity to live within their community in a more peaceful, positive manner.

Thank you Libby Brooks for my Guardian Angel 💕!!!

My cancer surgery is now a few weeks behind me. I’m slowly regaining my strength and stamina back. As I approach early February, I will learn more about my next phases, radiation and future medications moving forward.

In case you missed the first blog post… My Cancer Journal- Part 1

I’m very thankful for my team of “Everyday Angels”. These individuals have made my day by simply doing the little things… texting or calling to check in, sending a card, offering a smile, prayers, or even sometimes, a bit more. Thank you!!! Your kindness has been greatly appreciated.💕💕💕

Handmade Angels… an Everyday Gift of Love and Kindness. These beautiful gifts flew off our shelves this past Christmas made by local artist, Kim Reid at Wilkes County Hardware.

That’s the thing about Angels, they often appear when you least expect them. The Herdman children were initially looking for free food and snacks at church when they first arrived on the big screen. Over time, their mission evolved into become more involved with the Church Christmas play. The Church snacks were secondary. Eventually, they learned about the story of Jesus’s birth and much more.

One of the youngest Herdman’s, Gladys Herdman served as The Angel of The Lord in a unique way in *The Best Christmas Pageant Ever* Christmas play. She yells out to the audience and tells the Wisemen to get going using a large sense of urgency.

Likewise, This Cancer Journey has revealed to me a host of “Everyday Angels” in my midst… like those medical professionals who consistently give 200 percent of their daily work towards helping oncology patients find answers to their ongoing medical care needs. I’m truly blessed with an amazing medical care team!!! Thank you 😇 Angels!!!

Until Cancer comes calling, you don’t realize how many different medical professionals you will encounter. I have been blessed so far with Angels, doing their everyday work in a very gentle way.

Let us not forget those “Everyday Angels” who walk among us in our daily lives who have the ability to sense those who need immediate care, and offering kindness and assistance where it is needed.

I’m extremely thankful for my small little host of “Everyday Angels” that have appeared to help me during this difficult time.

My closing question to you today…have you taken the time to notice who your Angels are OR can you recognize/know who your “Everyday Angels” are??? If so, take time to say Thank You!!

As I continue this Cancer Journey, I’ll never forget the Angels that have surrounded me with love, kindness, prayers, endless encouragement, and support during my journey … from all over my greater community… family, friends, hardware store community, and my new Cancer Medical Team. 😇😇😇

*“Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares” – Hebrews 13:2*

Advocacy, blogging, breast cancer, Cancer, family, Hardware Store Life, Home, January, journey in life, Life experiences, Personal Self-Care, seasons of life, women’s health

My Cancer Journal- Part 1

January 11, 2026 hardwarelifewife 7 Comments

Normal Existence, Turned Upside Down…

In Early November in 2025, I went to Winston Salem for my usual 3D imaging mammogram. For those of you who are regular readers of my blog, several years ago I had written a blog post entitled, “Waiting” after finding a lump in my right breast. I went regularly every 6 months for scans for a couple of years solid until the radiological team had enough data evidence to show that the micro cysts were stable enough to move me back on a yearly mammogram routine. So, my “worry” had subsided somewhat because everything was fairly normal… well, for me that is.

Fast forward to November of 2025… I was stunned when I opened up my mammogram results online to see the radiology report read very differently from what I “normally” see… the words “Architectural distortion of the left breast” looming large in my mind. The verbiage was just very different from my “usual” mammogram summary. I was worried.

I Just Knew…

I was asked to have a repeat mammogram exam and ultrasound follow up as soon as possible. The medical team was quick to proceed with this and thankfully, it happened quickly.

I knew the protocol already, the results are given to me of the day of the new mammogram/ultrasound findings. I would know before I went home from my appointment, which is a small blessing in disguise. This time the results discussion was different. The radiologist who read my new mammogram and ultrasound results, came in to speak to me in person. After he began to go over my results, I knew then it was cancer even though he never used the words cancer directly to me as he began to discuss next steps… MRI and Biopsy.

My next few weeks were filled with upcoming appointments in between daily life and work. “The Big C” was looming large in all things… my diet was changing a bit more to defeat my new enemy, The Grinch.

This “large” manual has been a wonderful resource for me over the last few months… and will continue to be as I move into next steps after surgery recovery

Choosing To Focus On Essentials…

I have a few good friends who have been through cancer treatment in the last few years and I was aware of how intentionally they had switched up their dietary habits to combat the cancer itself AND aid in healing. I wanted to start small, so I began to push away sugar, starches, pasta, and breads in my diet. Ugh… the holidays were fast approaching and those holiday goodies were absolutely everywhere… it was a battle worth fighting for and during the holiday season, it was a must do.

I’ve added mushroom coffee into my daily lineup, the benefits of different types of mushrooms are tremendous for cancer patients

Choices made. I decided to focus on eating a variety of Whole Foods… a more intentional emphasis on fresh fruits, vegetables and a nice portion of protein on my plate. I’ve left the processed foods off my plate all together. The health benefits of a Whole Foods diet would definitely be a greater advantage to me.

What I have learned … Cancer cells thrive in a glucose rich environment and in my case as well, having an estrogen positive cancer… maintaining a healthy weight will be a beneficial outcome in my Cancer Journey. Breast Cancer, by its true definition, is the uncontrolled growth and division of cells in breast tissue, which can typically lead to the formation of a tumor. Knowing all of these factors, I didn’t want cancer to thrive within me. A healthy approach to eating and food should hopefully make a remarkable difference as I continue to confront this disease head on for years to come, not just a temporary fix.

Bowl full of fresh fruit for breakfast, full of blueberries, blackberries, oranges, apples, and often strawberries

One Day At A Time…

Looking back on those weeks, it’s all a big blur. The biopsy confirmed what I already knew internally, it was Cancer. Specifically, Invasive Ductal Cancer, a very common form of Breast Cancer, now a real part of my daily existence. 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with Breast Cancer. When I heard those statistics, I was stunned and a bit surprised.

According to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, Breast Cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women worldwide, with over 1.84 million new cases of Invasive Ductal Carcinoma occurring in 2022. The US has estimated last year, in 2025, that 316,950 women were diagnosed with Breast Cancer. What do all these numbers tell us? Early detection and regular screening is imperative for all women across the globe. I should also mention that being proactive with our health concerns as women should be top of mind. If you are unhappy with the answers you are getting, advocate for yourself and find other solutions when it comes to your health.

This sweet gift, a pink cross is never far from my sight. Thank you Ruth 💕

The last few months have been a blessing and very humbling for me. So many people walk the cancer journey unbeknownst to others in their greater community without vocalizing their needs. I have talked with several people who have personally experienced cancer that I had no idea that they had cancer before. These “silent soldiers” who have defeated cancer under their own terms making strides towards full recovery. These cancer survivors have offered tremendous support, and encouragement as well as my friends and family.

Meeting My Medical Team…

More appointments followed in early December and I met my surgeon and my medical oncology doctor, with whom I feel very lucky to have in my corner. Their constant positivity was not only contagious but they also indicated that the cancer findings were fixable. A “road map” for my cancer journey was in progress for my recovery and I felt very grateful to have them navigating the way. My new medical team has created positive connections with me, for which I’m thankful, as they have addressed all my concerns and questions. As a result, I feel highly confident in their ability to provide the best and upmost care and support for my recovery.

But, still looming large in my mind…was the upcoming holiday season. It was only a matter of a few weeks before Christmas and I couldn’t let Cancer ruin my holiday. My doctors had quickly begun to map out the next steps on my “road map to recovery” and finally, it was becoming more clear to me and my family how the process would take place. I felt good about my prognosis. I also felt lucky… my yearly mammogram screening had caught the cancer early!!

The Grinch That Didn’t Steal My Christmas

Beginning the Next Chapter…

The New Year rang in and I waited patiently for my surgery date. As you read this today, I have turned a page on a new chapter in this journey . My surgery to remove the cancer was completed. Healing is now in progress, and my pathology results are really good. I’m so thankful! My margins are clear, no signs of cancer in my lymph nodes, and The Grinch, (my cancer tumor) size 14mm , has been extracted!

The Road Map Continues…

I will soon follow up with my surgeon and medical oncologist and once surgery healing has been completed, next steps will be laid out on the “road map”. Radiation is anticipated, in early February. One step at a time in the cancer process.

On the journey I have noted… Cancer changes your mindset, how you move, how you react to food, and how you will respond to your overall health needs. Rest, I have learned, is important in my day to day life. Literally taking each day, one day at a time. Cancer is a life changing experience and my health will never be the same again without the thoughts of cancer.

Advocacy and Connections…

Connection: The energy that exists between people when they feel valued, seen, heard… when they can give and receive feedback without judgement and derive sustenance and strength from the relationship.

I’m going to take a moment to connect back to the daily life of a business owner. Each day brings the opportunity to make connections with existing customers or creating connections with a new customer. A constant flow of communication can be achieved in several ways by utilizing such tools as social media networks, sending emails, answering phone calls, OR the direct interaction with a customer. However these connections are made, a base network can be made or created. When those connections are positive interactions and those become the norm, successful relationships thrive. A definite goal of any business owner or entrepreneur… or any highly valued professional.

My personal health over the last 6 months has brought me to a new place where I will continue to highly value and creating those positive connections with any medical professionals that I encounter. Even though my surgery was successful, Cancer will always be in my radar for years to come.

Creating positive connections and relationships is the Standard of Care that we all should have. I don’t consider it to be the Gold Standard, but the Basic Standard of Care.

As you are reading this, you may think back upon an encounter where you may have felt the same way at some point… disconnected from your medical provider… were they truly listening to your symptoms??? Did you feel valued as a patient or even was your time valued???? I have felt “disconnected” from doctors that I have met in my past and it was not a wonderful experience.

My Cancer health journey has made me realize that I’m the Gold Standard for my personal self-care and advocacy. What I have learned from those past disconnected experiences…Advocacy is self-care. Personal Self-care is important…Make time for your personal medical, physical and mental health and overall wellbeing. Seek out and find those providers who are “connected” with your health needs and who will help you achieve your health goals. Self -care is taking time to take action and meeting those mandatory health screenings.

This routine mammogram screening in November of 2025 definitely has impacted my cancer recovery. If I had initially cancelled my appointment, or even rescheduled it, my cancer treatment could have possibly look very different.

Personal Self-care is my goal moving forward, along with Advocating for my healing and overall wellbeing. I’m trying to allow myself the grace to live one day at a time and the opportunity to rest when I need it as part of that self-care routine.

Whether Cancer is present in your daily walk, or not, we all need to advocate for ourselves in all situations. Take care of yourself 💕.

Dedication Note…

This blog post is dedicated to my Family and Friends who have been by my side from Day ONE of my diagnosis.

To my fellow cancer journey friends and survivors, we are in this together, forever. Thank you for your strength, endless support and endurance.

Richard has been a rock of strength, courage, love, and support to me… following me to each doctor appointment as well as my parents and sister. Benjamin has surrounded me with love and hope for healing from the very beginning. I’m truly blessed with wonderful family.

Friends, you may never know how much I appreciate your love, presence, and kindness with each passing day.

Lastly, to you my loyal followers and readers, I would not want to make this Cancer journey alone without your prayers. The power of prayer and your kind words of encouragement have given me hope as I have begun to navigate this new way of living as a reality in 2026. Thank you 💕

A new journey begins, aging, blogging, breast cancer, Cancer, caregiving, challenges, change, Christmas, classic movies, community, December, family, Hardware Store Life, Home, Hometown Holidays, journey in life, Life experiences, Life In Wilkes, Resilence, The Grinch, Transitions in Life

The Grinch That Didn’t Steal My Christmas

December 15, 2025 hardwarelifewife 14 Comments

Often the Christmas Classics have an unscrupulous or “misfit”character that is central in the story. As the Christmas story unfolds, that unruly character evolves and begins to change over time, reaching a new level of understanding and empathy. The Grinch is no stranger to this scenario. The Grinch has a unique meaning for me this 2025 holiday season.

The Grinch… the neighbor North of Whoville who hated the entire Christmas season.

The Grinch…hated the thought of the people of Whoville experiencing joy on Christmas Day. He stole all of the Christmas presents, stockings, Christmas trees, feasting food and even the firewood logs!!!

The Grinch…hoped the joy of Christmas would be spoiled, every home had been emptied by him as he taken all of their possessions. But, it didn’t happen. The people of Whoville celebrated Christmas anyway.

The Grinch… eventually realized that Christmas had come without all the excitement of Christmas presents, toys, wrapping paper, and all the other components of how we often celebrate Christmas Day. Christmas was about something so much more.

The Grinch… Experiencing Cancer, sickness OR even the loss of a loved one during the holiday season. These life altering events can definitely steal the Joy of the Holiday Season and leave you feeling sad, stressed or “Grinchy”.

The Grinch…personally present for me this holiday season, but NOT stealing the hope for healing, or the joy of celebrating the holiday season with family and friends. Will the holiday look potentially different? Yes. But, so will the next few months. Meeting my care team, Surgery, radiation, and ❤️‍🩹 begin the process of healing and recovery.

The Grinch… learned that the Whoville community gathered together to celebrate what was wonderfully good about Christmas, ultimately making his heart grow bigger.

The Grinch… has nothing our own hardware community….We are blessed. I always look forward to your smiles, laughter, and conversations as you have continued to shop with us for the last 10 years. You have become a part of our family.

The Grinch… The arrival of Cancer within my own life has made me very thankful and grateful for my community of family and friends who are supporting me daily as I embark upon a journey to find wellness once again. My heart is full of strength, hope, and courage as I continue to live ONE day at a time.

The Grinch… Unable to steal Christmas away, because Christmas is so much more than the day itself. Christmas is more about tiny acts of kindness, compassion, community spirit, and finding Grace in second chance opportunities.

The Grinch… Often when sickness or grief comes, we don’t allow ourselves the opportunity to live in full grace. The daily mantra should be for us all, not just cancer patients to live ONE DAY AT A TIME. When experiencing grief, anxiety, sickness, or cancer, every single day can be challenge with ever changing health conditions, or emotions. Through God’s grace, tomorrow is a uniquely different day. Celebrate the positive days and allow ourselves to rest when we need to.

Foot Note: Earlier this month, I was officially diagnosed with Invasive Ductal Breast Cancer, my Grinch. This cancer was found after my regularly scheduled mammogram. I strongly encourage everyone to keep all medical screening appointments. It’s so easy to get “busy” in the moment and forget about or delay them months down the line.

My initial prognosis is good and surgery will be scheduled soon. I have two appointments this week in Winston Salem. Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers over the next few months. I covet your prayers.

I know many of you that might be reading this today, have faced similar health challenges whether it was long term sickness, loss of a dear loved one, or a personal battle with cancer and can empathize with my personal situation.

Moving forward, we may find it necessary to alter our store hours to accommodate my appointments. Please be patient with us as we try to navigate this new “un-normal” phase of life for us.

Please also consider that if you reach out to our social media pages that a response might be delayed due to this new phase “unwellness” I am experiencing. That being said, If you need an immediate response to a specific product question, please call the hardware store for further assistance. We thank you for your support and understanding.

Wishing y’all a very Merry Christmas season! 🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄

The Hardware Life – A wife's journey into the hardware business