I am Monica King and this is my story…..
In May of 2003, at the age of 17, I was diagnosed with stage 2A Hodgkin’s Lymphoma disease.
I discovered a lump on my neck that was odd. This lump didn’t hurt, but felt odd and I knew something was wrong. I informed my mother, and she immediately scheduled me a doctor’s appointment.
After several tests it was determined that I had cancer.
I was diagnosed two days prior to my high school graduation.
Imagine getting prepared to graduate from high school, and being told you have cancer. I was devastated, but also in denial. I questioned God often, asking why me?
For the next five months, I would endure several rounds of chemotherapy, radiation, and scans. I had plans on attending college at Alabama A&M University in the fall. I thought this would all come to a halt with my recent diagnosis.
However, my mother didn’t throw me a pity party.
She made me attend college in the fall as we originally planned prior to my diagnosis. My mother made sure I didn’t use my diagnosis as a crutch and a means not to continue with my life.
I stayed on campus and completed treatments around my school schedule. This was very challenging, but with a strong support system I pushed through.
I completed my last chemotherapy treatment in October 2003.
Scans also revealed that the cancer was gone.
Almost 20 years later, I still remain cancer free.
October 25, 2023, I will celebrate 20 years of being in remission.
I currently reside in the Nashville, Tennessee area as a Human Resources professional in the music industry.
Having childhood cancer taught me to live life to the fullest and to never let your diagnosis take over your life.
I am so thankful for my family and friends that were there for me throughout my cancer journey.
Being a cancer survivor has made me the women I am today.
- Monica King, Cancer Survivor