Four years ago this month I received my breast cancer diagnosis. Throughout this journey, I have worked hard not to let cancer define me, but I also recognize the importance of sharing my story to help others who may be going through something similar.

In spite of the global pandemic, things are looking up around here! The sun is shining, the sandhill cranes and robins have returned, and the best news of all - I AM CANCER FREE!

I am working to view cancer as an invitation. An invitation to have the hard conversations, to be open to greater possibilities, to reach out to those who I’ve been meaning to but haven’t, to be more present. To continue to explore and try new things. To be vulnerable. To love deeply without hesitation💥

Here are some of the ways I try and take to stay happy and healthy as the seasons shift and the cold weather sets in (hello, Montana winters!).

While summertime would seem to be an ideal time to nail down these routines, take ‘er easy and sink into self-care, things like road trips, camping weekends, family reunions and all the other exciting routine breaking that happens this time of year can interrupt our self-care.

We all know that staying on top of our mental wellness can be a challenge, but tools like therapy, yoga and meditation help us stay on track, right? Despite all the evidence (and advertising!) in support of self-care tools like these to help stay sane amidst the chaos of everyday life - we aren’t always paying attention to our brain health… are we?

As the founder and CEO of ANGEL AID, Cristol is working tirelessly to offer antidotes to the adversity and challenges faced by families affected by rare diseases.

Rare diseases impact more people on the planet than AIDS and cancer combined - 350 million people, half of whom are children. [Source: Global Genes]