We’re brokenhearted to report that Amy’s battle with cancer has come to an end. She was a bright light in our world, despite facing darkness every day. She will be greatly missed.
Your dad dies. You have to quit your job. Now, you’re homeless. And then: Cancer. Advanced Colorectal Cancer to be exact. This is the trajectory Amy Huett’s life took in 2015.
With a bang, Colorectal (Colon) Cancer entered Amy’s world.
Amy’s career shifted. She went from caring for residents in a retirement community to staying at home with her children. Immediately, staying at home became vital not only for her kids, but for her Colorectal Cancer treatment regimen, too. By force, Amy had to give up her life to fight for her life.
The Stats on Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal Cancer, also known as Rectal Cancer, affects 1 in 21 men and 1 in 23 women. Amy is that “1.” Had Amy not left her job and changed insurances, she never would’ve known that “1” was her. Rapidly her focus was split between caring for her family and fighting an invisible villain: cancer.
Colorectal Cancer and the “Loves of My Life”
Oncology, treatment, death. These are words that became part of normal conversation for Amy. Suddenly, Amy began to have discussions with her children, Esther and Isaiah, then 6 and 4, about the harsh realities of cancer. As they have grown, she’s been more open on the affects of her Colon Cancer. Sadly, she explains to them what life may be like for them if she dies. Continually, her children also need reassurance.
When she’s between treatments, her son gets anxious. If his mother isn’t wearing her pump, he questions why she isn’t taking her treatment. Amy explains to Isaiah that she is in between Colorectal Cancer treatment periods and the pump isn’t needed at the moment. This may be instantly calming, but Isaiah is keenly aware of the pump’s importance. Being candid and transparent is part of the cancer battle for Amy and the “loves” of her life: her children.
Colon Cancer, Best Friends, and Bingo
While navigating new terminology, Amy discovered Cancer Services of Gaston County. Alkaline water, what Amy calls a “life saver,” is one of many supplies that Cancer Services has provided. In addition, Cancer Services even provided for her soul’s need of community and joy. The weight of chemotherapy and radiation treatments has been made lighter by games of bingo. Above all, Amy enlarged her family circle. The Bingo game organizer, Beverly Washington, is a fellow volunteer. Consequently, she has become her “friend” and “adoptive mother.” With open arms, Cancer Services has supported Amy on her Colorectal Cancer journey.
One Year Later-Beyond the Diagnosis
For about a year, Amy wrestled with the diagnosis. Today, Amy can see that God has given her “another chance to live.” Therefore, Amy views her Colorectal Cancer story as a way to “bless others.”
Now, Amy uses the word “good” to describe what once was her nightmare. As an advocate, she has taken it on as her mission to provide “hope” to other patients.
Methodically and carefully, Amy has used her time to research various types of cancers (not just her own) and information on funding resources for other patients to utilize.
As a result, Amy is using her cancer diagnosis to show others how to fight while also helping their own families learn strength and compassion.