Kelly Carpenter
Posted by Love Hope Strength on Feb 17, 2009
Eight days following my graduation from Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, I was diagnosed with stage III colon cancer at the age of 28. Rather than celebrate my last night in Baltimore with friends, I was on the phone with my family strategizing how to get to them as soon as possible. My plan to move to San Francisco and begin my career as a pediatric oncology nurse was put on hold, as I prepared for impending surgery. When it was determined that I would need six months of chemotherapy, I decided to move back to my home state of Vermont and welcome the support of family and friends.
The irony of my situation was that I went to nursing school to become an oncology nurse. I was drawn to the field after seeing my mother wind her battle against breast cancer in 2002. I admired her nurses for their knowledge and limitless compassion. I hoped to become part of a caring team dedicated to supporting cancer patients through their treatment.
After my second round of chemo, I began working on the inpatient adult oncology floor at the same hospital where I was receiving treatment. I worked part time through my treatment and am in the same position today. I see patients that have varying prognoses. I have watched people who are just diagnosed deal with their new reality. I have also watched as family members struggle to say goodbye to their loved one. There is no doubt that cancer affects everyone. I am always awed at the love, hope and strength that radiates from both patients and their families.
Shortly after my diagnosis, my father said to me, “you can choose whether you are going to see cancer as a blessing or a curse.” Though at times it may have felt like a curse, I made the conscious decision that it would be a blessing. I am grateful for the perspective it has given me on life, and that it has taught me how truly lucky I am to have such wonderful family and friends. I feel fortunate and excited to be part of Kilimanjaro Rocks. I am blessed to be healthy enough to get out there and challenge myself for a cause that I believe in.
