In my 25^th year of life I’ve had many ups and downs. I was diagnosed with cancer, graduated with my masters and today I passed my APRN boards. That’s right, I PASSED! After 3 hours in the exam room, I hit end exam and thought, "here we go".  I literally saw my heart beating while I awaited the results.

These past 11 months have shown me that anything is possible. I’m living proof that when you put your mind to it, you can achieve anything! I’ve faced much adversity after being diagnosed with cancer. There are many good days, but there have been some bad ones along the way. But following my motto, I have taken everything one step @ a time. And of course, I couldn't have done it without the support of my family and friends. (Who had more confidence in me than I had in myself!)

I’m not sure what I’ll do with all this free time, but I'm sure I’ll find something J. It’ll take a few days to set in, but for now I’ll celebrate!

Till next time...KMS APRN

This past Saturday was “Light the Night”. I had an AMAZING turnout! Team one step @ a time represented!! It was truly an honor to be surrounded by so many people that support me. This was my first year attending the event. It is truly amazing to see all of the balloons lighting the way along the walk to support those in the fight and remember those we have lost. Participating in “Light the Night” is something that I plan on for years to come. Cancer chose me for a reason. I’m not sure I will ever understand the reason, but raising awareness for blood cancers is the least I can do. At this point in time team one step @ a time raised $7,900! That’s well above and beyond my goal and I’m very grateful for all of the donations received. This money will truly impact those affected by blood cancer and hopefully help to find a cure! Below are some pictures from the walk that Chris took, but I’m waiting for the official team picture taken at the event. We had so many people they had to do a panoramic! Looking forward to next year’s walk!

Till next time…KMS

http://www.flickr.com/photos/cspencephoto/sets/72157636309919473/

Well it is official…I completed my clinical rotations! So I’ll be receiving my diploma very soon J.  It’s another thing to check off my to do list. Just one more step until I’m the real deal and as always I’m taking it one step @ a time. Hard work definitely pays off!!

This past weekend marked  one year from when ALL decided to join my life. I’m pretty sure I’ll never forget looking in my mouth and seeing purple tonsils. Yes, I said purple. I’m sure there are few that will remember the phone call about my “necrotic” looking tonsils from Ocean City, MD. While I wasn’t officially diagnosed until November 2012, it was this weekend last year that the process began. Little did I know at the time that I was in for such a journey! Those purple tonsils gave everyone a run for their money for about a month.

Chris and I were able to get away this past weekend. We went to the same car show (H2Oi) in Ocean City, MD. I survived with trip without incident! Definitely a new experience to travel. We had a good time and it was a much needed break. 

Just a quick reminder about Light the Night…On October 5th I will be walking in Light the Night. I’m excited to see everyone who will be walking! I’m also very honored by the overwhelming amount of generosity and support I’ve received. I’m very grateful for all of the donations made. Those who have donated are truly making a difference in the lives of those affected by cancer! While I’m lucky enough to be surrounded by supporting and loving people, there are those less fortunate. With even a small donation, we are providing support and funding to provide for those in need and most importantly, the donations are helping to hopefully find a cure! So THANK YOU for your continued support.

Till next time…KMS