A year ago today, I turned 25. A year ago today, I received the first round of my chemo cocktail. A year ago today, I started the journey that was my 25th year of life. And it was a hard one. The hardest one yet. Today, as I turn 26 on the 26th, I’m so grateful to be where I am at this moment. Turning a quarter century old, I wasn’t yet sure if I would be cured, if I would respond to my treatment plan, if I would live to see 26. I like to think that in my heart of hearts I knew I would beat this and I would win, but to be truthful, there is always that “what if” in the back of your head. But today I’m stronger and so much healthier than I was a year ago today. Today I know I’m going to be okay, that I still have a long road to walk but that I can do it and that I will do it. Today, instead of being in the hospital, eating the single worst meal of my life (an absolutely nauseating chicken stir fry), I’m going to be busy at work and then spending the night with my mom, dad and Michael at a delicious restaurant in Somerville! We will cheers over a delicious cocktail called the Dorchester (pink lemonade, vodka & a cucumber…so good!) and we will celebrate all that we overcame together in year 25 and toast to a healthier, easier, and just plain better year 26.
As I’ve said so many times, this situation has taught me such a great deal, but none more than how truly blessed I am for the support system that I have. My birthday seemed to come early this year when last week on my one year “anniversary,” #inspirationaljessy stories starting popping up on my newsfeed. SO many people reached out…close friends and family, previous coworkers, people I haven’t talked to in years, people I’ve never met at all but read my blog. It was incredible. It made what was supposed to be a day of sadness, a day of celebration and happiness. The love I felt on that day was something I will never, ever forget and I thank each and every one of you who made it so special. It was the best birthday present I could ever have asked for.
People say turning 26 on the 26th means it’s your “Golden Birthday” and I think there couldn’t be a better time to have a golden birthday. So my birthday wish is to to have a golden year, one that sparkles and shines, one that brings out the best in me and allows me to help others, one that continues on my road to recovery. My wish is that this year is truly magical. Because a girl can dream, can’t she?
XOXO,
Jessy
p.s. yesterday at clinic, my amazing nurses surprised me with a beautiful birthday cake and “happy birthday” sing-a-long. It was so sweet and absolutely made my day so wanted to share some pics!
The Inspiration Initiative 
Happy Birthday, Jessica! What a truly amazing year this has been. I know it hasn’t been easy, but you have accepted and dealt with everything with strength and with grace. You are winning this battle, and in the process, teaching others and providing them hope. I do believe that good things come to good people; you are one of the best. I am so touched by your willingness to be so open and honest about your struggle. Your battle has become our battle, one you will win because of your strength and because of the warrior army you have developed. We support you with love, faith, and prayers. Once again, Happy Birthday, Jessica. Enjoy your golden year and all the years to come. Sincerely, Linda Jenkins.
Oh Linda, thank you so much for these kind words. Can’t tell you how much they mean!
Happy Golden birthday!!!! I hope 26 brings your best year yet! Look at all you have already overcome at such a young age – a tremendous challenge but it has taught you to appreciate the little things in life so much more than ever before. You are so very inspirational and I wish you health and happiness for the year ahead and always! 🙂
Thank you so much for the kind words of love and support, means a lot!
Jessy Happy Birthday to you so happy your here for your very special day enjoy and God bless! Hugs
Hi Jessy, Happy Golden Birthday for sure!!! You don’t know me but I have read a few of your blogs. I came across them via Maija’s facebook ( Maija is a special girl) I’ve seen your dance moves 🙂 and I can tell you are truly an amazing person. I know you will go very far in life, with an attitude like you have you can conquer the world!!! So enjoy your special day and when you make your birthday wish, can you wish for spring to get here soon?? Take Good Care. xo
Ill definitely wish for spring to get here soon, we need it! And thank you for reaching out with such kind words and for following along on my journey. It is so appreciated! Xoxo
Jessie, I remember when you were born. Those were the days when we would meet in NH or you would come to Wrentham with your family to get together. Shared in many birthday parties, baptisms/first communions together. Fond memories.
This is your year…a year of love/peace/and continued health…..Spring is a sign of hope….green grass/flowers/warmth from the sun. It is just around the corner and it is our wish that you feel that every day this year. This is not the journey that you thought you would be taking, but with true Moran style you are strong full of fight, faith and love. Cancer cannot win with all of that inside of you. :-0)
Enjoy all the good each day brings, I know you do. Continue to inspire many people including me to be grateful for what we have through your words Jess.
We continue to think of you and pray that this year is a wonderful year for you.
All our love, Connie, Mark, Holly and Allison