My name is Sarah, and I started practicing taekwondo again in January of this year, after having done it as a kid. In March, I learned that my cancer had returned and progressed to stage 4. Despite this, I was determined not to let my diagnosis stop me from pursuing a lifelong dream: earning my black belt. My instructors knew how important this was to me, so they created a plan to help me reach this goal while I am still healthy and feeling strong. I am learning the full curriculum at an accelerated pace, and with a lot of hard work, I am on track to test for my black belt in June 2026.

Achieving my black belt is the only bucket list item I have left. It gives me something meaningful to work toward and represents an accomplishment I can truly be proud of. Taekwondo has become an important self-care tool on my cancer journey. Training keeps my body active and flexible, which helps manage my pain and keeps me from feeling stiff and sore. More importantly, it strengthens my mind and spirit, reminding me that I am capable of overcoming hard things. When I am practicing, I feel hopeful and focused on staying healthy, and it lifts the weight of my diagnosis.

This journey is even more special because my son, Lucas, is also working toward his black belt, and we are both set to test in June. He has been dedicated to taekwondo for over six years, and sharing this milestone with him would mean the world to us. Unfortunately, the cost of testing fees is a challenge, and without support, I may have to give up my own dream to ensure he can continue. Your support would allow us to achieve this goal together, and I would be deeply grateful for any help you can provide.