Thursday May 22, 2025

Season 1 | Episode 12: Collateral Damage

In this powerful and reflective episode, Stephanie speaks candidly about the aftermath of survival and what it really means to live with the consequences of life-saving treatment. While she and Jeff had succeeded in buying more time, the toll on his body was undeniable. From a feeding tube and vision complications to radiation-induced side effects like a hole in the roof of his mouth and hearing loss, the journey was filled with small but relentless battles. Each one chipped away at Jeff’s physical strength, but never his spirit or their love.

Despite the visible scars and internal struggles, Stephanie and Jeff chose to live fully. With a defiant sense of hope, they set out to reclaim joy. One of their first acts of celebration was crossing off the first item on their bucket list: a breathtaking drive up the California coast to Big Sur and Pebble Beach. Though Jeff couldn’t play the course he had dreamed of, he experienced its beauty, standing by the ocean with tears of gratitude and wonder. This episode is a heartfelt reminder that while illness may change the body, it doesn’t have to steal the soul. Even amidst the collateral damage, love, resilience, and presence can carry us forward.

My hope is that the stories shared here bring you comfort, inspire hope, and serve as a reminder that even in the darkest moments, light still exists.

💛 Join me as we weave happiness through the grief.

Let’s build a community of strength, support, and healing together. Send me a DM over on social—I’d love to connect with you!