I'm Still Here: Real Conversations About Living with Metastatic Breast Cancer

This week Heather talks about the last 90 days left in 2023. She shares how you can make the most out of these last few months to set yourself up for a successful 2024.

Tune in to this week's Monday Momentum. Heather & Larry discuss what it was like for Heather to get a double mastectomy due to her diagnosis, and its long term affects.

This week, Heather reveals the mental shift she experienced during her treatment and subsequent maintenance. Instead of dwelling on statistics, Heather didn't just seek more time.

Heather consistently embraced the possibilities and maintained a belief in "what ifs" and "I have a chance." While fear often lurked, she chose to stay proactive, reshaping her perspective positively. She led with her mind, and her body followed suit.

We come to terms with the things beyond our control and persevere.

Heather regularly expressed gratitude for her body's capabilities. Rather than harboring anger and self-criticism, she chose to reframe her perspective, recognizing her body as the reason for her continued existence.

Heather shares her experience of setting her initial goal: to live long enough to witness Sydney's first day of kindergarten, and the profound emotions she felt upon achieving that goal.

Happy Breast Cancer Awareness Month! In this week's Monday Momentum, Heather shares what she looks for when supporting Breast Cancer organizations to ensure that donations directly benefit cancer patients and their families, not administrative expenses.

Heather also kindly recommends a few of her favorite organizations, and we'd love for you to consider donating or sharing their websites:

This week, Heather is opening up about her cancer treatment journey and how she leaned on her friends and family for help. Along the way, you might find yourself needing a ride, a babysitter, someone to look after your furry friend, a hand with cleaning, or even a bit of research assistance. Your close ones are there to fill these roles, and this week, we'll chat about how they can be your go-to support crew during your treatment.

I'm Still Here is hosted by Heather and Larry Jose. Heather was diagnosed with Stage IV (Metastatic) Breast Cancer in 1998 at age 26. Heather has lived with metastatic breast cancer for over 20 years and is often contacted by women asking for help with their diagnosis and transition to life with mets. IG: @heatherjose FB: Heather Jose I'm Still Here lyrics written by @Sanjay, our awesome son!

#breastcancer #metastaticbreastcancer #stageIVneedsmore #breastcancerawareness #heatherjose #metavivor #livingwithmets #fearofrecurrence #canceradvocate #livingwithcancer

Tune in to monday momentum. Heather and Larry share what fills their cup. Comment down below what fills up your cup!

I’m Still Here is hosted by Heather and Larry Jose. Heather was diagnosed with Stage IV (Metastatic) Breast Cancer in 1998 at age 26. Heather has lived with metastatic breast cancer for over 20 years and is often contacted by women asking for help with their diagnosis and transition to life with mets. IG: @heatherjose FB: Heather Jose I'm Still Here lyrics written by @Sanjay, our awesome son!

#breastcancer #metastaticbreastcancer #stageIVneedsmore #breastcancerawareness #heatherjose #metavivor #livingwithmets #fearofrecurrence #canceradvocate #livingwithcancer

When it comes to treatment, the medical portion can be consuming. Heather shares a few tricks that she learned through her treatment. Little adjustments, like minimizing the needle size, openly communicating with doctors, and asking the right questions. Tune in to this episode to learn the ins and outs of the hospital.

I’m Still Here is hosted by Heather and Larry Jose. Heather was diagnosed with Stage IV (Metastatic) Breast Cancer in 1998 at age 26. Heather has lived with metastatic breast cancer for over 20 years and is often contacted by women asking for help with their diagnosis and transition to life with mets. IG: @heatherjose FB: Heather Jose I'm Still Here lyrics written by @Sanjay, our awesome son!

#breastcancer #metastaticbreastcancer #stageIVneedsmore #breastcancerawareness #heatherjose #metavivor #livingwithmets #fearofrecurrence #canceradvocate #livingwithcancerb

Tune in to this week's Monday Momentum!

I'm Still Here is hosted by Heather and Larry Jose. Heather was diagnosed with Stage IV (Metastatic) Breast Cancer in 1998 at age 26. Heather has lived with metastatic breast cancer for over 20 years and is often contacted by women asking for help with their diagnosis and transition to life with mets. IG: @heatherjose FB: Heather Jose I'm Still Here lyrics written by @Sanjay, our awesome son!

#breastcancer #metastaticbreastcancer #stageIVneedsmore #breastcancerawareness #heatherjose #metavivor #livingwithmets #fearofrecurrence #canceradvocate #livingwithcancer

As you navigate the different phases of your treatment, your nutritional needs will shift accordingly. To kickstart this journey, it's a great idea to set some clear goals. Get specific about the foods you'd like to include, and think about which fruits and veggies you'd like to incorporate.

Don't shy away from trying new things, especially when it comes to fruits and veggies.

Have you ever thought about switching from regular smoothies to delicious smoothie bowls? Or maybe giving meal prepping a shot? Aim for adding at least 10 different types of foods daily – it's not as challenging as it might seem.

We all have those moments when we'd rather indulge in less healthy options, but during treatment, it's crucial to prioritize your nutrition.

You'll be pleasantly surprised by the variety of fruits and veggies you can easily fit into your meals.

Keeping your immune system strong to support your body through treatment is essential, so focus on eating well.

Consider using a food tracking app to help you stay on course.

And here's a friendly tip: when those sweet cravings hit, don't be too hard on yourself. Instead, explore healthier substitutes that still satisfy your sweet tooth.