In Sickness and Health: The Bond Between Mother and Daughter By Kelsey Cichoski There are some moments in motherhood that become turning points. Some are painful, and some are so joyful they’re remembered forever. This is one of my turning points that I hope to always remember. The excitement was more than I could have imagined. Standing in the kitchen, my counters cluttered, my busy day stood still when it finally happened for us. I had wondered if I would even get this experience I had longed for. I felt complete exhilaration when I actually did. *** Months before, I had just finished chemotherapy after being diagnosed with cancer during pregnancy. Yes, it is possible to receive cancer treatments while pregnant. And yes, it is possible for it to be safe for the baby, too. There are many chemotherapy medicines that do not cross the placenta. It truly is amazing. This time was an incredibly trying time for our family. Not only was I diagnosed with cancer while pregnant, but then the world was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. My support system became much more virtual than it was before. Because of the combination of my treatments and the pandemic, my husband was not able to work and began staying home with me full-time. This is a situation I truly never will take for granted. Our daughter’s birth was planned to take place between chemotherapy treatments, ensuring her safe arrival. Her birth was truly amazing. I feel that miracles took place to bring her to us so smoothly.
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