Accepting the illness is part of the healing

Hello, beautiful community,

Today, we want to introduce you to Roxana. This is the first time she has chosen to write about her journey, and the energy and optimism she radiates have reminded us all that attitude is a vital part of the healing process.

Who is Roxana?

She describes herself as a positive and energetic person, and the perspective she shares is deeply moving: “We must accept this illness; it must become part of our lives so that we can heal.”

Diagnosed in 2023 with Stage 4 Colorectal Cancer, and now facing a pelvic recurrence, Roxana has chosen to have faith: faith in herself, in the process, and especially in the evolution of medicine in Romania. For Roxana, the journey is about integrating this experience into her daily life while holding onto her most important role: being a mother.

Understanding colorectal cancer & recurrence

Colorectal cancer is a condition where medicine has made incredible strides. In advanced stages or during a recurrence (when the cancer returns to the pelvic area), the approach is specialized and focused on precision.

• Medical evolution: As Roxana points out, medical protocols in Romania have advanced significantly. Today, Stage 4 treatment is highly personalised using Targeted Therapies and Immunotherapy based on the tumor's genetic profile (biomarkers like RAS, BRAF, and MSI).

• The importance of mindset: Studies show that "Active Acceptance", the mindset Roxana describes, allows a person to channel their energy into recovery and treatment adherence.

Making the dream happen: A weekend with her child

Life doesn't pause for treatment, and for Roxana, being a mother is at the heart of her journey. Her goal is to spend a dedicated weekend away with her child, a time to focus entirely on their connection, away from the clinical routine of scans and hospital appointments.

We are currently in the process of making this getaway a reality. We are honored to support this moment of "reset," providing the space Roxana needs to step back from the patient role and simply be a mom as she prepares for the next stages of her treatment.

How you can help

Do you want to support our Warriors?

If you want to help us make more dreams like Roxana's come true, you can choose to donate here. Every contribution directly impacts a Warrior’s quality of life.

Are you a warrior or in remission?

Our mission is to help you move from surviving to thriving. Whether you need support to fulfill a dream: be it a weekend with family or a tool to ease your journey, we are here to listen.

Community moment

This week we discussed the importance of trusting your medical team and the progress of oncology in Romania. Awareness also means recognising the dedicated doctors who are working with the latest technology to save lives every day.

We wish you a week full of energy and faith, just as Roxana taught us.

With much warmth,

The TCW Team