What creative projects has AshleyCae Lee been involved in since her cancer diagnosis?

Since her diagnosis, AshleyCae has dived back into her activism and has also been incredibly prolific in the arts. She has partnered with organizations like Keeping Tabs and Keeping Genesee County Beautiful. In addition, she participated in a pageant and earned several medals. She has also been featured in three magazines as a model, released her first album called "Poetic Advisory" in collaboration with Zach Ro, and started acting, with upcoming film work thanks to her friends Star and T. She emphasizes using these creative outlets to show people more than just her diagnosis; she wants people to see her as a person.

What is the most challenging aspect of battling a rare form of leukemia, and how is AshleyCae coping?

The most challenging aspect is grappling with the knowledge that her specific type of cancer, CLL, will likely be the cause of her death. She copes by reminding herself that she's already healed, whether in this life or the next. While she is doing everything she can to improve her condition, she acknowledges her limitations and finds peace in accepting the inevitable. She focuses on making the most of the time she has left.

Are there any positive updates regarding AshleyCae's treatment or recovery?

Unfortunately, AshleyCae shares that she doesn't have any positive news to report. She has experienced setbacks, including hospitalizations and adverse reactions to chemotherapy, which have resulted in bruising and lesions. She is currently dealing with a new setback.

What initiatives is AshleyCae involved in to raise awareness about her rare cancer and support others facing similar challenges?

AshleyCae is working with the Blood and Bone Foundation in Michigan and is in the process of writing a bill to present to the Senate. This bill aims to help cover cancer patients' medical bills, housing, food, and gas, relieving them of financial burdens and enabling them to focus solely on healing. She is also developing her own foundation called Wise Word Place, which will utilize music, art, and poetry to facilitate healing, recognizing that cancer is a mental and spiritual battle as well as a physical one.

What kind of support has been most significant for AshleyCae during her cancer journey?

The moral support from friends and loved ones has been the most significant. Simple gestures like phone calls or having a friend sit with her after chemotherapy have helped her cope with feelings of isolation.

How can the audience provide support or assistance to AshleyCae or others facing similar health challenges?

Kindness and understanding are crucial. It's important to be mindful of the fact that people battling cancer may not always be happy or optimistic. Additionally, financial support is extremely valuable, as cancer treatment is a significant financial burden. Sharing information about people in need, even if you can't donate yourself, can help them reach someone who can.

How does AshleyCae stay positive and maintain a resilient spirit amidst adversity?

AshleyCae emphasized the importance of her support system. Her friends, family, and community provide vital moral support, reminding her she is not alone. She also channels her emotions into her creative pursuits, such as poetry and music, using them as a form of therapy and self-expression.

What are AshleyCae's upcoming plans and how can people get in contact with her?

AshleyCae has had several upcoming events, including a poetry performance at Hairella in November and the release of a new album titled "Black God." She is also working on a book. People can connect with her through her social media accounts (AshleyCae, Dr. WiseWord) or through her GoFundMe page, which can be found on her linktree. She welcomes any support to help alleviate her significant medical debt. She does future events on a case-by-case basis.

What is "Thrive After Cancer" about, and who is it for?

"Thrive After Cancer" is a book offering hope and guidance to those facing life's most challenging moments, particularly breast cancer. It shares Terry's personal journey as a two-time breast cancer survivor, along with stories from other women, emphasizing that readers are not alone in their experience. It aims to empower readers to heal their bodies, minds, and spirits and to discover their inner strength to thrive after a cancer diagnosis. It emphasizes the importance of a spiritual journey.

What inspired Terry Sterk to write "Thrive After Cancer?"

Terry had a lifelong dream of writing a book. After her first breast cancer diagnosis, she started journaling her experiences. Witnessing the impact of cancer on her children at different stages of their lives gave her insights into the profound effects on families. She wanted to share her journey and what she learned through the process to help other women cope with a cancer diagnosis and heal.

The book includes stories from multiple women. Why was this approach taken?

Terry understands that everyone's cancer journey is unique, yet universal human experiences and emotions are shared throughout the journeys. By including stories from multiple women, Terry aims to connect with a broader audience. Readers are more likely to find a story they can relate to, helping them feel understood and less alone. The book has a message to help with emotional, spiritual and physical needs, in their healing journey.

In the book, Terry emphasizes healing the mind, body, and spirit. Can you elaborate on this concept?

Terry believes true healing after a cancer diagnosis involves addressing all aspects of a person: the physical body affected by treatments and the emotional and spiritual well-being. She learned that addressing emotional and spiritual needs is just as important as physical healing. For example, the book focuses on how to address fear that can be a significant barrier to healing. A holistic approach can help patients find a "better normal."

What does Terry mean by finding a "better normal" after a life-altering experience like cancer?

"Better normal" refers to creating a new life that is even better than it was before the cancer diagnosis. It's a recognition that going back to the way things were may not be possible or even desirable. The goal is to prioritize personal well-being through self-care, healthy lifestyle choices, mindfulness, and faith. Through this, women can use this framework to rebuild stronger relationships, find deeper purpose, and be a healthier version of themself.

How has Terry's faith played a role in her cancer journey and healing?

Faith has been a source of solace and strength for Terry throughout her breast cancer journeys. It is Terry's personal understanding of the importance of faith for healing, but it's not necessarily for everyone. Her relationship with her creator has given her purpose and direction, guiding her to help other women who have had similar situations.

What impact does Terry hope "Thrive After Cancer" will have on its readers?

Terry hopes her book will inspire readers and that they will find their own way to a path of hope. She wants readers to know there is always hope, regardless of their circumstances. She wants to convey that they can find a better normal and thrive despite their challenges. Terry hopes that, by sharing her own inspirational journey and those of others, she can empower women to persevere through their hardships.

Where can the audience learn more about "Thrive After Cancer" and Terry's work?

"Thrive After Cancer" can be found on Amazon as a paperback and an ebook. An audio book is currently in production to come out within the next couple of months. Connect with Terry via Facebook, her book is also highlighted on Google.