My life has been met with a multitude of unique challenges, all of which have shaped me into who I am today. After losing my leg to childhood cancer at age 2, I spent much of my childhood feeling defeated, hated, and unworthy of life and love. I spent my adolescent and teen years as a spitfire. My goal wasn’t to return negative energy, but to stand up for myself against everything and everyone. Between struggles at home, school, and with my health, I felt as if I had no true safe space. I thought fighting was my only option for survival—and it was.

I was 16 the first time I contemplated suicide. I was being abused at school and felt completely unloved and unwanted at home. With my older siblings gone, I was truly alone with no love or support. I will never forget that day. As I was preparing to end my life, a voice came over me: “There is a greater purpose.” Frustrated, I still listened and decided not to go through with it.

I wish I could say my suffering ended that day, but unfortunately, it didn’t.

I spent the remainder of my teen years and early 20s navigating extreme poverty, abusive relationships, homelessness, and the continued theme of hate and unworthiness. Then, in my early 20s, I was diagnosed with a second cancer—something I never wanted to face.

Little did I know, this would be the moment that changed me forever.

After my second diagnosis, I decided to share my cancer journey with the world, telling my story of self-advocacy and determination. It led not only to a longer life but also to more opportunities.

I wish I could say that if none of my past tragedies had ever happened, I would be in a better place than I am today. But unfortunately, that’s not the case. I had to go through all of those things, because not only did they make me stronger, but they also gave me the tools to overcome and become so much more than I ever imagined.

My story is one of constant barriers and overcoming them, which has allowed me to embrace and live such a unique life. I want to share my story to inspire others who have a similar origin story.

While I am not my past, my past will forever be a part of me.

I am authentically Christine.