I’m 50 years old. In 2023, I was diagnosed with melanoma, and since then, my life has been a rollercoaster of treatments, surgeries, and hospital visits. It’s been a tough year—12 months of intense treatment, two surgeries, and more than 50 hospital appointments. But I’m still here, still battling, and still fighting with everything I’ve got.

One thing I’ve learned through this journey is the power of willpower. I refuse to let cancer define me. I will beat this. Every day I wake up with the strength to push forward, despite the challenges, despite the exhaustion. It’s a fight, and I’m in it for the long haul.

Dartmouth Hitchcock Oncology has been an incredible support system. I am beyond grateful for the doctors, nurses, and all the staff who have been there for me every step of the way. Their expertise and compassion have made such a difference in my fight. They’ve given me hope when I’ve felt like I couldn’t go on, and they’ve been a constant source of reassurance throughout this tough battle.

But it’s not just the medical team that’s carried me through this. The support from my family and colleagues has been invaluable. My family has been my rock, providing unwavering love and encouragement, lifting me up on the hardest days. And my colleagues—many of whom have become close friends—have shown me that I’m not alone in this. Their check-ins, kind words, and constant support have kept my spirits high.

It’s incredible how much strength you can draw from the people around you. Cancer is a tough adversary, but with the support of the right people, you can face anything. Every step of the way, I’ve been surrounded by love, care, and encouragement. I couldn’t be more thankful for that.

I’m still fighting. I’m still battling. But with the incredible team at Dartmouth Hitchcock, the love of my family, and the support of my colleagues, I know I’m not fighting alone. This journey is far from over, but I’m ready for whatever comes next. I will keep fighting, and I will beat this cancer.

This is my story. This is my fight. And I will never give up.

Here are two ways that you can help support patients, doctors and caregivers in the fight against cancer: 

1. Join me! Register for The Prouty today.
2. Make a gift to my Prouty fundraiser and help me reach my goal. Click the ‘donate’ button to support my efforts in the 2025 Prouty.

All funds raised will help fund innovative researchers and clinicians who are dedicated to finding ways to prevent, diagnose, and treat cancer. Prouty funds also provide meaningful patient and family support services that are otherwise unfunded—such as support groups, massage, art therapy programs, transportation and grocery assistance, and more.

Thank you for your support!

Hope starts here. Hope starts with you.

*Source: National Cancer Institute