Susan Kinkade
Corona, AZ
T-Cell Lymphocytic Leukemia
www.bethematch.org
1.What was the darkest moment in your cancer journey?
My darkest moment wasn’t the cancer itself so much as having to share my diagnosis with my closest family members. In some ways, I was embarrassed to say the word leukemia. I worried that people would feel sorry for me or worry that they would lose me to the disease.
2. If you could go back and talk to your pre-cancer self, what would you say?
I would say be open and honest with your inner circle from the beginning. Those people are the ones who truly have your back. Gather as much knowledge as you can about your disease but make sure your resources are reliable.
3. How has cancer changed you?
Cancer has made me appreciate the smallest things in life. I have learned not to stress about things over which I have no control. I try things I never would have before being sick because I would have been afraid. It has given me a voice to teach other medical professionals what it’s like to be on the other side of the stretcher.
4. What motivated you to pursue your 2nd Act?
I truly feel like life goes on after cancer and even continues while you are fighting your disease. Being able to share that with people going through that or any life changing illness is a gift. It gives people strength and hope.
5. What has been your brightest moment in your 2nd Act?
Meeting the amazing women who also shared their stories! I feel empowered to stretch my wings and see what’s out in the world to be 
discovered.
6. Where do you see yourself going from here?
I will continue my work with Bone Marrow Transplant, patients as well as helping to educate the medical staff. I feel that people need to hear that there is a light at the end of the deep dark tunnel.
7.What’s your favorite quote and how does it fit into your 2nd Act?
I live by the motto, “It is what it is,” but I think the quote that really fits my 2nd Act is, “Trust your journey.” Your life journey will take you amazing places and introduce you to some of the most wonderful people in the world –even if it’s not the journey you had mapped out!
