A New Chapter: My Thyroid Cancer Journey, Healing, Embracing Slow Intentional Living & Rebuilding This Blog
Introduction: A Fresh Start
Life has a way of shifting our paths when we least expect it. For me, that moment came when I was diagnosed with papillary thyroid carcinoma—a diagnosis that changed not only my health but also my perspective on life, self-care, slowing down, and even how I create my personal space.
This blog has always been a space for me to share my thoughts, but now, it feels more important than ever to rebuild it with intention. Moving forward, I want this space to focus on health advocacy, slow & intentional living, and creating a home that feels curated and like a true sanctuary—because healing isn’t just about our bodies, but also about the environments we surround ourselves with.
If you’re here—whether you’re going through a health journey of your own, looking for ways to slow down, or wanting to cultivate a cozy home that reflects who you are—welcome. Let’s start this new chapter together.
My Thyroid Cancer Diagnosis & Surgery: What Happened?
Reading the biopsy report and seeing the words; Papillary Thyroid Cancer, was surreal. Even though thyroid cancer is highly treatable, it doesn’t take away the emotional and physical challenges of going through it.
For me, it all started with nothing.
I had no symptoms at all. My blood work was completely normal. I felt fine. I had no reason to believe anything was wrong. But during a routine doctor’s appointment for something entirely unrelated, my doctor suggested a thyroid ultrasound—just as a precaution.
That single test changed everything.
The ultrasound revealed a suspicious nodule on my thyroid, which led to a biopsy. That biopsy confirmed what I never expected: papillary thyroid carcinoma.
I was shocked. How could I have cancer when I had no warning signs? If I hadn’t gone to that appointment—if my doctor hadn’t suggested that scan—I might not have found it at all. That’s when I learned a big lesson:
- Normal blood work doesn’t always mean everything is fine. Sometimes, we have to look deeper—before symptoms ever appear.
- Advocating for your health could save your life.
- At any moment, life can change. Be grateful for the ordinary days – relish in them. Slow them down.
- Be present. Show up for your loved ones. Hug them. Tell them you love them. Because the simple, everyday moments – the ones we often take for granted are the ones that truly matter and make up most of our life.
After my diagnosis, I had to make one of the biggest decisions of my life: surgery to remove the right side of my thyroid – a right partial thyroidectomy. It felt surreal, but I knew it was necessary.
Now, one month post-op, I am still healing, still processing, but also deeply grateful. This experience has taught me the importance of listening to your body, advocating for yourself, and embracing the healing process.
The Best News—I’m Cancer-Free!
At my most recent post-surgery follow-up, I received the news I had been hoping for—I am officially cancer-free!
Hearing those words felt like a breath of fresh air. My doctor told me that everything looks great and I don’t need another follow-up for an entire year. After months of uncertainty, stress, and navigating the unknown, I can finally say: I am okay.
I know not everyone gets the outcome I did, and I don’t take this for granted for a single second. This journey has changed me, and I’ll never take my health—or my ability to slow down and enjoy life—for granted again.
What This Means for My Blog & What’s Next
This experience has completely reshaped my perspective, and I want this blog to reflect that. Moving forward, I’ll be focusing on:
- Health & Wellness – Encouraging women to advocate for their health and prioritize their well-being, including their mental health
- Slow & Intentional Living – Prioritizing self-care, mindfulness, and the joy of slowing down
- Creating and Curating a Home That Feels Like a Sanctuary – Making spaces that restore us, rather than overwhelm us
I believe that our health, mindset, and home should support us in living a life that feels good—one that is peaceful, intentional, and uniquely ours. Whether it’s through self-care rituals, cozy routines, or designing a home that nurtures you, I want to share it all.
Final Thoughts: Join Me on This Journey
Healing—whether from surgery, illness, or life’s challenges—isn’t just about physical recovery. It’s about learning to care for yourself fully—mind and body. And that includes the spaces we live in, the rituals we create, and the way we choose to show up for ourselves every day.
I’m excited to continue sharing this journey with you, and I’d love to hear from you, too!
What topics around health, cozy living, or home life would you like to see here?
Drop a comment or send me a message.
Take care,
Nurse Talie
