“I remember my first day of chemo as if it were yesterday, hanging up m...” — Suleika Jaouad Quote

I remember my first day of chemo as if it were yesterday, hanging up my favorite summer dress like an athlete retiring a jersey. Within a few weeks, my waist had shrunk to a double zero - the size it was when I was in the sixth grade. My cheek bones jutting out. Rings under my eyes. Skin the color of chalk.

The hero's journey is, you know, one of the oldest story arcs that we have. And it's one, I think, that's especially projected onto cancer patients.

After my diagnosis at age 22 with leukemia, the second piece of news I learned was that I would likely be infertile as a result of chemotherapy. It was a one-two punch that was my first indication that issues of cancer and sexual health are inextricably tied.

Even the word 'cancer' is ugly, scary, burdensome - a roadblock for a conversation before it even starts. Who wants to go there? Much of the time, I'd rather not bring it up if I don't have to - and I'm the one with the disease!

When you get older, the first thing that starts to go is reflexes, and reflexes are important for any person, especially an athlete - to react to something in a time when something is going on, and you can't be a second or two behind.

My parents wanted me to become a national athlete.

It is the inspiration of the Olympic Games that drives people not only to compete but to improve, and to bring lasting spiritual and moral benefits to the athlete and inspiration to those lucky enough to witness the athletic dedication.

It's just like I'm an athlete, I'm a human being. I have personal issues going on.