Kristen's Cancer Fight

My name is Kristen and to say August knocked me sideways would be an understatement. 41 was supposed to be my year. After years of pushing through life’s ups and downs, I finally did something for huge. I graduated with my bachelor’s degree—something I worked so hard for, something I was so proud of. I had plans. I had momentum. I was ready to finally step into the next chapter of my life.

And then, August happened.

What started as a routine UTI quickly turned into a full-on medical whirlwind. Within a week, I was in surgery for a hysterectomy—and shortly after that, I got hit with the word no one ever wants to hear: cancer.

This journey is going to test every piece of my rainbows and unicorns personality but giving up isn’t in my DNA or soul.

If you’ve been through the fire yourself, you know—we don’t come out the same. We come out stronger. And Strong was already in my name. ❤️ One of my faves described recently before this mess as an Absolute Badass and I carry that fire with me daily.

Chemotherapy starts next week. We have travel plans for Christmas so I am hoping I get the best Christmas present of my life and get ring the bell and say I am cancer free before we go.

This page is a place to donate and be updated on my journey through the fight of my life to be able to watch my kids grow up, graduate high school and college and get married and watch their wildest dreams come true. And grow old and gray and hold a grandchild or two.

If you’re not in a place to give, I still ask for your prayers to Him but also I believe deeply in the power of kindness to heal—not just the body, but the spirit. I ask you to send love, send light, and do something kind—for me, for yourself, or for someone else. Let’s keep that energy moving. Let’s make this world softer, brighter, and more human.

With fire in my heart,
Kristen Strong O'Connor Petty (AB)

Please don’t hesitate to reach out for other ways to help and donate to this cause. And share with everyone you know!

I will leave you with this… My dad selected paraphased verses from Romans 12: 9-18 on my parent’s wedding day.

He read:

“Don’t just PRETEND that you love others: REALLY love them.

Hate what is wrong.

Stand on the side of good.

Love each other with brotherly affection and take delight in honoring each other.

Never be lazy in your work but serve the Lord enthusiastically.

Be glad for all God is planning for you.

Be patient in trouble and prayerful always.

When God’s children are in need, be the one to help them out. And get into the habit of inviting guests home for dinner or, if they need lodging for the night, be a warm home.

When others are happy, be happy with them.

If they are sad, share their sorrow.

Work happily together.

Enjoy the company of ordinary folks.

AND don’t think you know it all.

Don’t quarrel with anyone. Be at peace with everyone, just as much as possible.”