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Ashleigh’s journey with ependymoma is one of resilience, transformation, and purpose. In sharing her story, she opens up about the pain of a delayed diagnosis, the daily challenges she continues to face, and how she has chosen to move forward by turning hardship into hope.
"This diagnosis has changed every aspect of my life — from my physical abilities to my mental resilience. I live with increased pain and anxiety, but I’ve also found a renewed sense of purpose. I’ve become motivated to achieve more and pursue a career I care deeply about — patient advocacy, especially in the rare disease space. To those newly diagnosed, my advice is this: allow yourself to grieve. Feel everything — anger, sadness, fear. Then rise. Advocate for yourself. Connect with others. Learn as much as you can. There is no 'right' way to cope, and healing isn’t linear. But in time, you’ll find strength in the knowledge, the community, and within yourself."
Through grief and growth, Ashleigh has discovered her voice as a passionate advocate. Her message to others is one of empowerment: feel it all, rise, and know you are not alone.
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