I was 23 years old. I was lucky to have good doctors. My endocrinologist checked my iron with my hormone bloodwork because I’m trans. It was low. That led to a colonoscopy and a stage 4 diagnosis with mets in both lungs. I was in shock. I’m glad my dad introduced marijuana to me. I wouldn’t have been able to power through treatment without it.

I regret never getting a second opinion, but I’m not sure I’d change much. I’m lucky to be alive as is.

It’s scary. I had a stroke during that time and had cancer twice. It has completely altered the course of my life and I’m still piecing it together at 31. Cancer is omnipresent. It always will be and that sucks.