“You have to accept that you’ve had cancer and your body is going through a tremendous change” – Tamara Smith
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Tamara Smith is a 32 year old woman who lives in Houston, Texas. When she was 31, she noticed a lump in her neck that was initially thought to be an infection and then ultimately diagnosed with a very rare cancer, adenoid cystic carcinoma of the submandibular gland. She had surgery and radiation, completing all her treatment on June 19, 2019! During cancer treatment, she wrote and published her first book, “The Story of a Purple Heart,” a fictional novel inspired by true events (a young woman in an abusive relationship with a man she loves dearly.) Tamara will also be publishing her autobiographical journal, “Why Not Me” early next year, detailing her cancer experience. On today’s episode, she talks about how she was able to get through treatment through the power of prayer, bravery and a lot of family support, her purpose to empower and uplift others and what is next for her in life!
(Phototograph and permission to post provided by Tamara Smith)
What We Discussed on Todays’ Episode/Helpful Links:
Tamara’s Publishing Company: TTS Publishing
The Story of a Purple Heart by Tamara Smith
Facts about Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma
Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma: NIH Rare Diseases
Treatment for Head and Neck Cancers
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Follow Tamara: Instagram (Personal) | Instagram (Business) | Facebook | Website
Related Episodes:
Episode 3: Ingrid Kolstoe (Low Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer at 41)
Episode 23: Ruth Kavanagh (Brain Cancer at 34)
Episode 2: Katie Kashmanian (Inflammatory Breast Cancer at 50)
Support Interlude: Women’s Cancer Stories with Dr. Teplinsky. If you’re enjoying the show, please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts (iTunes). If you liked this episode, please share with your friends and family!
If you have any feedback or are interested in being a guest on the show, please e-mail me at interludecancerstories@gmail.com