Join Jessie and Helga for this episode as Helga tells her story of being diagnosed with papillary and tall cell thyroid cancer 6 years ago. Helga is an engineer and cyclist with a sense of humor and a love for storytelling. She talks about some of the bumps in her road of experiences with muscle weakness for several months after RAI and difficulty with bone healing after a bike crash (which her doctors told her was likely due to her thyroid hormone levels). She also shares about the supportive roles of being physically active, her faith, and 2 friends who were role models of positivity for her. Helga is in the persistent disease category for thyroid cancer and also has a congenital heart condition that can cause sudden death, which has put her persistent thyroid disease into perspective. Helga tells her story about timing when it comes to dating relationships, with some difficult life experiences coming up around the beginnings of relationships. Helga also discusses her belief in self-advocacy with medical providers and being partners in the process (which involves dialogue and openness). 

Please note: This podcast is unedited and represents the opinions, experiences and views of those speaking. Please consult your own medical doctor(s) or therapist for all matters involving your health and medical care.