Last year I was able to finally say I was Cancer free so I continue to celebrate life for year 6. Read more here…
Back in 2015 I was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma (you can read my early remission post here). I was only 23 and for months I didn’t feel right. I went on feeling this way of slowly not being able to do the simple things, like lay flat to go to sleep or walk up a small hill without stopping. When I found out it was Cancer I felt like my whole world stopped. I had lost all control of myself, my life and had to just have hope and go with the flow. That feeling is something that I can’t put into words but it’s something that keeps me motivated to live life every August 24th.
Last year unfortunately I was not able to do this due to covid. It was sad and I will not lie, a few emotions I had back then came back because I didn’t do anything, especially on the big year when I could finally say I was Cancer Free. For those that don’t know, you are in remission until year 5. On year five it marks the milestone of being Cancer Free. So if you know of someone hitting that mile mark, send them a card, text them and or give them a phone call. It means a lot to them.
Anyway, I have a rule that I always take off August 24th to do something lively. One year I went to the North Fork of Long Island and explored the Lavender Farm as well as vineyard hopped. Another year my friends came out to Asbury Park in New Jersey with me and we partied the weekend away. Every year it’s something different where I can just take a deep breath with no worries!
This year I wanted to stay local in Westchester County New York. I knew I wanted to do some type of trail that there would be sights to just take in. So The Walkway Over the Hudson came to mind right away. This trial is gorgeous and super well maintained. There are renovated bathroom stops (which is always key), it’s pet friendly (will bring Too next time), plenty of parking and so much more. Also you can rent bikes if you didn’t bring your own which was so cool. I will defiantly be back to do that.
The bridge over the Hudson is about 1 mile long and it’s beautiful. If you are traveling to NY or live here now this is a “must do” in my books especially going into fall as the leaves change. We continued to walk the trail and did about 6 miles. We would have kept going but the heat of 99 degrees was starting to tire us out. Also we wanted to freshen up for dinner at one of my favorite spots, which is Harvest on Hudson.
This tucked away Tuscan dream sits along the Hudson, is filled with charm and will never disappoint your tastebuds. I usually like going their for my birthday but to be able to celebrate this year was a good feeling so why not dine at a favorite spot. A few appetizers we always get are the grilled octopus, 1-2 of their delicious pizzas and or a seafood platter. This night was that type of night.
I was a very active and healthy girl when my life changed. I can’t stress enough to be vocal when you know something isn’t right. Don’t take no for an answer when you know there’s more. Life is crazy, stressful and unpredictable. Take control of your healthy and enjoy all the good things. If anyone is going through this right now or knows of someone please feel free to always reach out. Cancer isn’t just a physical battle but it effect you emotionally as well.
I also want to thank my support system. You have been there for my highs and lows and showered me with unconditional love. Because of all of you I was stronger and will be forever grateful for you all!
XOX
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