49: Navigating Chronic Cancer and Motherhood (Through Surrogacy): With Laura Stevenson

Girls Talk Healthy Aging

In this heartwrenching episode of the Girls Talk Healthy Aging Podcast, co-hosts Alli Kerr and Shawna Kaminski sit down with Laura Stevenson, a vibrant 36-year-old who shares her incredible journey from being a physically active college student to navigating life after a Chronic Myeloid Leukemia diagnosis. Laura opens up about the initial warning signs, including unexplained exhaustion, strange bruising, and night sweats, which she initially attributed to her busy lifestyle and sports activities. Her story takes a dramatic turn when she gets to a doctor for blood work, leading to a life-changing trip to the ER.

Laura discusses her treatment journey, starting with an experimental oral chemotherapy, the challenges of managing side effects, and her decision-making process about pursuing a bone marrow transplant. Her brother was a match, but her doctor encouraged another medication, which she continues to take today. Laura shares how she coped with the physical and emotional toll of the disease while balancing her studies and how this experience taught her to empathize with others' unseen struggles.

Beyond her treatment, Laura highlights the pivotal role of lifestyle choices, including group fitness, yoga, and weight lifting, in regaining a sense of power and control over her body. She also reflects on the influence of her mother's positive attitude and her own determination to set goals and explore new adventures, regardless of her health status. Laura candidly shares her emotional journey of attempting to conceive, the challenges she faced when her cancer resurfaced, and her exploration of nutrition and wellness as a means of living her best life.

Stay tuned for a future episode where Laura will share the next chapter of her story, including the miraculous arrival of her daughter, Rose. This episode is a testament to resilience, hope, and the power of positive thinking. You won't want to miss it!

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