In this deeply moving episode of People, Pints, Possibilities, we sit down with Monica Stephenson Borla, a proud Paso Robles resident and cancer survivor who shares her raw, inspiring journey through a rare form of ovarian cancer.

For years Monica was misdiagnosed — symptoms dismissed or misattributed — until she refused to accept the answers and drove herself to Stanford University, where doctors finally identified the aggressive cancer. What followed was a grueling chemotherapy process, incredible medical teams who became lifelines, and ultimately, victory: Monica is now cancer-free and thriving.

She opens up about the unbreakable support from her husband and her tight-knit friend group (Cactus Cooter Club) in the Central Coast — a circle that’s sadly lost members to the same horrible disease. Through shared pain and mutual care, they’ve turned tragedy into a powerful network of strength, reminding each other (and all of us) to live every single day to the fullest and appreciate the gift of life.

This is a conversation about advocacy, resilience, friendship in the face of loss, and the mindset that turns survival into a celebration. If you’ve faced health battles, supported someone through cancer, or simply need a reminder to cherish every moment — Monica’s story will touch your heart and lift your spirit.