The life of a caregiver is never dull. From managing a loved ones care to handling their finances, caregiving is a 24/7 job. While I thought I already knew how to navigate most of the demands of caregiving (while still…
Caregiving 2.0: One Year Later
Yesterday marked one year since I took my grandmother to the Emergency Room with severe back pain. I never imagined that trip to the ER would mark the last time she’d live in her condo of more than two decades….
Five Things I’m Grateful for This Week
This was one of those weeks where busy was an understatement, the stress was real, and life got in the way of everything I tried to do. Yet, by the end the week, rather than feel exhausted from my lengthy…
How I Found the Silver Lining in a Thyroid Cancer Diagnosis
People are not usually thankful for a cancer diagnosis. It’s hard to think of something so disruptive and life-altering as a positive experience. But, as with most things in life, we are never totally in control. And a cancer diagnosis…
Vanessa Goes to Washington
It has been 13 years since I graduated with a political science degree from The American University, and I am excited to be going back to Washington, DC! Well, not technically, so bear with me. As a thyroid cancer survivor…
Media Mentions: Advocacy in Action
While I may have taken some time off from blogging, I’ve remained active as a patient advocate and had many exciting opportunities to share my experience as a millennial thyroid cancer survivor and a caregiver to my 94-year-old-grandmother. Since my…
Meet Abridge—the Digital Patient Advocate that Will Revolutionize Your Next Doctor’s Appointment
How many times have you gone to a doctor’s appointment armed with questions you’d like to ask only to have them leave your head in the moment once you’re there? Or you are with a loved one at his or…
Why I Joined Clara Health as a Breakthrough Crew Ambassador
As a cancer survivor, advocacy work is extremely important to me. I know firsthand how difficult hearing the words “you have cancer” can be. They are words no one wants to hear. What comes next can be even more daunting….
