"With Hope, The Odds Don't Matter"

I was recently contacted by a very nice woman named Heather Von St James. Here is what she told me:

I am 44 and a mother to a quirky little 7 year old, Lily. She is my only child, and my whole world. When Lily was just 3 1/2 months old, I was diagnosed with mesothelioma; a type of cancer that kills most people within 2 years. As I’m sure you can imagine, the first thing that came to mind when I was diagnosed was my baby girl and how I wasn’t going to be able to watch her grow up. After intense treatment and recovery, I’m still here 7 years later and cancer free! My journey with cancer was a terrifying one and I'd like to turn my pain into purpose and become someone that other people can look to for guidance, inspiration, and hope in situations like my own. My husband and I recently participated in a short video about my experience with cancer and I contacted you because I feel that your blog would be an excellent place to share. I’m hoping to use this video as a tool to raise awareness of this horrible little known cancer that is such a deadly killer (and sadly, 100% preventable).

I watched the video and KNEW I had to share it! She is a great example of strength in the face of adversity! I know several people who have fought against the odds being told they or their child will not be able to do certain things (even live) and blowing the doctors minds with their progress! Mesothelioma is not a death sentence and Heather is proof of that!

For those who don't know, mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that develops from cells of the mesothelium, the protective lining that covers many of the internal organs of the body. Mesothelioma is most commonly caused by exposure to asbestos. The most common anatomical site for mesothelioma is the pleura (the outer lining of the lungs and internal chest wall), but it can also arise in the peritoneum (the lining of the abdominal cavity), and the pericardium (the sac that surrounds the heart).

Thank you Heather for contacting me and sharing your story with me - it is inspirational and God bless you for spreading awareness!

I highly encourage you to watch and share her video! Click here to watch! Enjoy!