Megan Hershman

When I look back at these past few months, I find myself feeling incredibly grateful. My cancer journey has not been the one I would have chosen, and there have certainly been setbacks and difficult days, but somewhere along the way, I realized something important: my life is still happening, and there is so much life to live.

Lately, I have been feeling really well, and I have tried to embrace every bit of that. I was fortunate enough to travel to a cancer retreat in New York with Cancer Buddy, where I met so many incredible people who have become new friends. There is something special about being surrounded by people who understand parts of your journey without you having to explain every little thing. I left with new connections, new memories, and an even greater appreciation for the people who walk alongside me.

And then there have been all the things that simply make me me. Soccer games. Football games. Music festivals. Watching my daughter play soccer. Getting out, being surrounded by people, cheering, laughing, listening to music, and making memories.

And if you didn’t know before, now you do: I LOVE a big game! There is just something about the energy, the excitement, the crowd, and being right there in the moment that makes me so happy. These are the moments I don’t want to take for granted.

Another really special part of these past few months has been getting to move in with my brother, my sister-in-law, and the twins. It has been such a blessing and, honestly, so much fun. After living in a rental that was always meant to be temporary, there is something incredibly comforting about finally feeling like I’m in a home. Not just a place to live, but a place filled with family, laughter, everyday moments, and people I love. Being surrounded by them has brought me a sense of happiness and stability that I didn’t realize just how much I needed. I feel very lucky to have this time with them and to be part of the everyday chaos and joy that comes with having the twins around.

Watching Abriella through her junior year at Webb has been another gift. She is doing so well, and she just had homecoming, which feels impossible because I swear I blinked and suddenly my little girl is a junior. She has had to work through a few injuries during soccer season, but she continues to give it her all at every single game. I admire her dedication, her determination, and the way she keeps showing up even when things aren’t easy. Watching her chase the things she loves reminds me to keep doing the same.

I’ve also found myself looking ahead with excitement. I’m so happy that family will be coming in for Thanksgiving and that we’ll get to spend that time together. I have a few weddings coming up, too, and I’m really hoping I’ll feel well enough to be there. I want to dance, celebrate, hug the people I love, get dressed up, laugh until my cheeks hurt, and make more memories.

Because that’s what I’ve learned through all of this: the setbacks may be part of my story, but they don’t get to be the whole story.

I am especially grateful for the people who have chosen to stay. The people who have stood beside me during some of the darkest moments. The ones who continue to check on me, ask how I’m doing, send a message, make a call, show up, and remind me that I don’t have to walk through this alone.

Those people mean more to me than they will ever know.

Cancer has changed so much, but it has also given me a different perspective on what truly matters. I don’t want to wait for the perfect day to appreciate my life. I want to celebrate the ordinary days, the big games, the soccer fields, the concerts, the family gatherings, the weddings, the hugs, the laughter, and every moment in between.

I don’t know exactly what the next chapter will bring. But right now, I’m feeling well. I’m living. I’m making plans. I’m showing up. I’m loving my people. And I’m incredibly grateful for every beautiful moment I’ve been given.

Despite the setbacks, there is still so much joy here. And I intend to keep finding it.