Distant memories of my time spent in and out of the hospital, as I fought for my life, resurface every morning when I punch in at the hospital where I am currently employed. I never thought I’d see the day that I’d enter the doors of a hospital again for something other than to receive treatment for leukemia or post-transplant related issues. But I’m here, and I’m prospering. Minus a few aches and pains, I’ve never been better. I have a newfound appreciation for life and all the things taken for granted before acute myeloid leukemia (AML) burst down my door, uninvited.
With a new lease on life, I’m living my life to the fullest, with gratitude and intention. I’m loving and living on purpose. I’m checking things off my bucket list and accepting new challenges. And I’m winning! I am healthy, defying odds, and I am maximizing my potential now that I’ve been gifted a second chance. Today, I accept the call to advocate for blood cancer survivors and their caregivers. I am determined to make a difference and raise awareness for blood cancer, specifically AML. For over three years, while receiving treatment and ultimately an umbilical cord stem cell transplant, I dreamed of the day when I’d be healthy enough to reach people and spread my message of hope and faith. We who have battled AML are AMAZING, MIRACULOUS, with LIMITLESS potential.
I am an OVERCOMER! I vowed to be the voice for the hopeless and those who may be on the verge of giving up, that you, too, can OVERCOME blood cancer or any obstacle that stands in your way. I made a promise to myself to use my talents and gifts to serve the blood cancer community in the most positive ways possible. When I was diagnosed with AML, I had no knowledge of the disease. It hit me like a ton of bricks. I am dedicated to releasing educational and inspirational material to spread the message of victory. I won my battle over leukemia because I understood that part of the battle was within my MIND! We may feel physically weak at times, but we are strong!
Today, I am in remission, I am working full-time as a surgical technologist, I am traveling and enjoying my life thanks to my faith in God, my amazing oncology-hematology team, and the hard work and dedication from everyone behind the scenes at Blood Cancer United, whose endless support and hard work help to make people like myself comfortable in various ways. Had it not been for my diagnosis, my perspective on modern breakthrough medicine wouldn’t be what it is today. Thanks to Blood Cancer United for the resources and the message of hope that you spread.
Forever a survivor.
Mendya
acute myeloid leukemia (AML)
