Shine on, Summer!
Donation protected
My name is Summer Morse and I've recently been diagnosed with DCIS (Ductal Carcinoma In Situ), an early stage, high grade form of breast cancer.
My story sounds like so many others I had heard about through the media and close friends. It all began in a pretty routine way. I had never had a mammogram before but knew I was at an age when I should start having them. Therefore, I scheduled my appointment thinking nothing of it. Another new routine exam I will have to endure every year.
The diagnosis was unexpected and a total shock to my world, and I was overrun with emotions and questions. How could this happen to me? I did not have any symptoms. I felt healthy, took my vitamins religiously, ate organic foods whenever possible, exercised, and even meditated whenever I could. I have no family history of breast cancer, so wait, why me? Per standard procedure, I was just coming in for a routine exam.
Since the day of my diagnosis, my life has shifted. Priorities have been upended. Everything is different. I was forced to take a look at the bigger picture and make an honest evaluation of my life. It is true what they say, you never truly know how you will react to hearing the "C" word until you have no choice. I cannot wrap my brain around this diagnosis and I am coping with the ramifications.
Physically, emotionally, and financially.
I feel it is necessary on my journey to change and dismantle old habits to create a new way of being. I believe that if I immediately jump on to an operating table without dealing with my spiritual and habitual self, I run the risk of the cancer reappearing. It is my objective to create a peaceful relationship with the cancer, understand it, and then eventually say, "Adios, cancer!"
I was insulted after my first consultation when my female doctor told me my only two options were surgery with radiation or a mastectomy. That's it? That is all you got for me? You are telling a woman who has stage zero DCIS that these are her only options? That did not feel right.
Fortunately, I have some wiggle room and an amazing opportunity to try some alternative and diverse methods to rid my body of the cancer. I transferred doctors and found a wonderful surgeon covered by my insurance. This doctor not only supported me, but encouraged me to do my due diligence and investigate alternative treatment first. He acknowledges the power of the holistic approach to healing and has been monitoring me while I explore the less invasive treatments.
With that freedom, I have been lucky to have a team featuring not only Western doctors, but also amazing healers of varied styles and practices. Both treatment styles have helped me tremendously. I am honored to be in the hands of this dedicated team who are committed to assist me on this journey.
I expect this to be a lengthy and expensive journey that has just begun. Any donation, large or small, would be helpful and I would appreciate it from the bottom of my heart.
I cannot wait to celebrate my beating cancer with you all! Thank you so much, and I send you all my love.
My story sounds like so many others I had heard about through the media and close friends. It all began in a pretty routine way. I had never had a mammogram before but knew I was at an age when I should start having them. Therefore, I scheduled my appointment thinking nothing of it. Another new routine exam I will have to endure every year.
The diagnosis was unexpected and a total shock to my world, and I was overrun with emotions and questions. How could this happen to me? I did not have any symptoms. I felt healthy, took my vitamins religiously, ate organic foods whenever possible, exercised, and even meditated whenever I could. I have no family history of breast cancer, so wait, why me? Per standard procedure, I was just coming in for a routine exam.
Since the day of my diagnosis, my life has shifted. Priorities have been upended. Everything is different. I was forced to take a look at the bigger picture and make an honest evaluation of my life. It is true what they say, you never truly know how you will react to hearing the "C" word until you have no choice. I cannot wrap my brain around this diagnosis and I am coping with the ramifications.
Physically, emotionally, and financially.
I feel it is necessary on my journey to change and dismantle old habits to create a new way of being. I believe that if I immediately jump on to an operating table without dealing with my spiritual and habitual self, I run the risk of the cancer reappearing. It is my objective to create a peaceful relationship with the cancer, understand it, and then eventually say, "Adios, cancer!"
I was insulted after my first consultation when my female doctor told me my only two options were surgery with radiation or a mastectomy. That's it? That is all you got for me? You are telling a woman who has stage zero DCIS that these are her only options? That did not feel right.
Fortunately, I have some wiggle room and an amazing opportunity to try some alternative and diverse methods to rid my body of the cancer. I transferred doctors and found a wonderful surgeon covered by my insurance. This doctor not only supported me, but encouraged me to do my due diligence and investigate alternative treatment first. He acknowledges the power of the holistic approach to healing and has been monitoring me while I explore the less invasive treatments.
With that freedom, I have been lucky to have a team featuring not only Western doctors, but also amazing healers of varied styles and practices. Both treatment styles have helped me tremendously. I am honored to be in the hands of this dedicated team who are committed to assist me on this journey.
I expect this to be a lengthy and expensive journey that has just begun. Any donation, large or small, would be helpful and I would appreciate it from the bottom of my heart.
I cannot wait to celebrate my beating cancer with you all! Thank you so much, and I send you all my love.
Organizer
Summer Morse
Organizer
New York, NY
