Thankful for the Journey

Megan’s Story

Written by: Megan Mobbs

On Wednesday, August 26th, 2015, I was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma. Yes, at 18 years old this fairly healthy girl was diagnosed with cancer. I would've never dreamed in a million years that I would get cancer. But, you never know when you will be chosen to let God work through you. I can truly say it has been an honor to be picked by God to show his hand at work through my mission. The next 6 months of my life would soon be filled with many trials. I would be lying if I said it wasn't the hardest 6 months of my life so far, or if I said I never felt like giving up. There were many days, especially in the beginning, that I just didn't know if I would make it to the next day, and I know the only way I did make it through is because I serve an AWESOME God who has never and will never fail me.

At the beginning of my journey, I felt so alone and scared to face the months to come, but as every day passed I was covered more and more not only by the love and comfort of God but my amazing community who stepped in and loved me unconditionally through my entire journey. I was also sheltered in love and prayers by people I didn't even know! I've learned many tough lessons since August, but the hardest would probably have to be letting go. I was forced to let go of the plans that I had for myself. My life would be paused whether I liked it or not and that was hard for me because I'm such a control freak. I had plans to start college and begin my life in many ways until that day, and from that day on the grasp I thought I had on my life would be ripped completely out of my hands and would be put into the hands of the Lord. So many things were taken from me: my happiness, my freedom, my health, and my life were out of my control. This would become the biggest blessing I have ever faced. I just thought I had great plans in store for my life.

The ironic thing about my journey is that the hardest things to me weren't the medical obstacles I had to endure but the mental, emotional, and spiritual battles I had to face. Yes, chemotherapy is awful, and I wouldn't wish it on anyone. But, the loss of my health, freedom, happiness, hair, confidence, and image of my future were the toughest parts of my journey. Because although I'm getting well, I've learned what freedom truly is, that happiness comes and goes, and that my hair will eventually grow back. I've gained a new and improved confidence, and my future is in God's hands. As I was learning to let go of the good, I also learned to let go of the bad. When you choose to let go of the bad, God shows up with greater things, and it is AMAZING. I am very thankful for the journey, because without it I wouldn't be where I am today. I've been blessed with new friends who have loved me through it! I've gained strength in so many areas of my life. It seems like just yesterday I was looking forward to the moment where I get to tell my story and brag on my God, and look! Here we are! On Tuesday, January 12th, 2016, I was told that I AM CANCER FREE!!! Yes, at 19 years, old I beat cancer! Thank you to everyone who has prayed and shared my story! I SERVE AN AMAZING GOD!

I would like to give a special thanks to a couple groups of people who played a major role in my mission. From the calls to check in to the smiles that brightened each moment, they made such a huge difference. First, thank you to the Harbin Clinic Medical Oncology staff. They went above and beyond to make the process go as smoothly as it possibly could. It never failed no matter how bad I felt the ladies at the front always seemed to get a smile out of me. They kept me positive, and that is something that has carried me so far. Also, the ladies in the back office from the lab to the nurses who worked together to keep me as comfortable as possible. Dr. Simpson went out of his way the entire journey to give me hope and peace of mind. I could never brag enough on how he helped me to understand every aspect of the situation. My chemo nurse was one of the biggest blessings sent to me during this time. She did an amazing job at calming my nerves on infusion day and being there to keep my mom sane. We never had an unanswered question with Melissa around. All in all, this facility went out of their way to help me complete my mission with a smile on my face!!! Here I am, 3 years later, working in the same office where I was treated. I was given the opportunity to give back, and I am so very thankful for my job at the Cancer Center. It has truly changed my life. Secondly, I would like to give a huge shout out to Summit Quest for coming to visit, bringing goodies, and for the prayers and support. This organization showed so much love and genuine compassion to me and to my family. They have been absolutely amazing. This experience helped me realize that there is so much joy in helping others.

My goal is to be able to help people like these awesome people helped me. I want to make a difference. If my story only touches one life I will be overjoyed. If I am only able to encourage one person to keep the faith and stay positive then it was all worth it. You never know what you’re capable of until you are pushed well beyond your limits. Stay positive and the strength will follow.