Today we’d like to introduce you to Krystal Wilson.
Hi Krystal, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Against All Odds: My Journey of Triumph as a First-Gen College Graduate and Thyroid Cancer Survivor.” As I look back on my journey, I can’t help but marvel at the twists and turns that have shaped my life. My name is Krystal R. Wilson, and I am a 35-year-old first-generation college graduate from Webster University and a two-year thyroid cancer survivor. My story is one of perseverance, determination, and unwavering hope.
Growing up in Pagedale, I always dreamed of going to college. As the first in my family to have such aspirations, I knew it would be a challenging path, but I was determined to break free from the limitations that surrounded me. College represented not just an opportunity for education but a chance to change the trajectory of my life.
However, life had different plans for me. While on my college journey in 2007, my parents fell gravely ill. My dreams were put on hold as I became their primary caregiver, setting aside my aspirations to care for the two people who had always supported me. It was a difficult decision, but my love for them was greater than any ambition I had for myself.
Over the years, I took on the role of caregiver with unwavering dedication. It was a rollercoaster of emotions – joy, and laughter mingled with pain and heartache. My parents fought bravely, but fate dealt us a harsh blow as they passed away just a few years apart. The loss was devastating, and I felt like my world had crumbled. In the depths of my grief, I knew I had to keep moving forward. My parents had always encouraged me to pursue my dreams, and I knew they would want me to continue my education. So, with their memory as my guiding light, I decided to resume my college journey.
However, life wasn’t done challenging me. Just as I got back on track with my studies, I received the shocking news – I had thyroid cancer. The diagnosis was like a thunderbolt, and I felt fear creeping into my heart. But deep down, I knew that giving up was not an option. My parents’ resilience and the strength they had instilled in me pushed me to fight. As I underwent treatments and battled cancer, I had to put my college plans on hold again. But this time, I didn’t let it discourage me. I took the journey one step at a time, focusing on healing and believing that someday, I would return to complete my education. The road to recovery was challenging, but with the support of my loved ones and the encouragement of fellow Thyroid cancer survivors, I found the strength to keep going. And when the time was right, I resumed my college studies again. It wasn’t an easy road – juggling classes, doctor’s appointments, and personal responsibilities – but I was determined not to let anything hold me back.
I embraced the idea of “stopping and starting,” understanding that life’s challenges might temporarily interrupt our plans, but they don’t have to stop us from achieving our dreams. I was a living testament that setbacks do not define us – our resilience does.
Finally, May 13, 2023, arrived when I donned the graduation gown and walked across the stage to receive my Bachelor’s Degree in Speech Communication Studies. The feeling of triumph was indescribable. My journey had been one of tears, laughter, heartache, and hope, and I had emerged stronger and wiser.
My story is a reminder that no matter how tough life gets, we have the power within us to rise above our circumstances and achieve greatness. I want to inspire everyone who aspires to finish college, especially first-generation students and cancer survivors. Can I overcome the odds and fulfill my dreams?
Life may throw unexpected curveballs, but the key is to keep moving forward, even if we must pause. We can achieve anything with perseverance, determination, and an unyielding spirit. My journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, and it inspires others to embrace their strength and take on life’s challenges with unwavering hope and courage.
Alright, let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what challenges have you had to overcome?
Not at all! As the youngest and fifth child, I always felt responsible toward my siblings. But when our parents fell seriously ill, that responsibility grew exponentially. Being thrust into the role of a caregiver while trying to pursue my dreams of a college education was an immense burden.
My older brother faced unimaginable challenges with two below-the-leg amputations, and I had to be there for him every step of the way. My twin sister, with her mental disability, needed constant support and understanding. And when tragedy struck in October of 2022, my older sister was hit by a car, leaving her battling for her life. I felt like I was carrying the world’s weight on my shoulders, and it seemed like I had to be the pillar of strength for everyone. Despite all this, depression crept into my life like a silent intruder. The relentless stress and grief took a toll on my mental health, and I sank into a dark place. Some days, just getting out of bed felt like a monumental task. But I couldn’t afford to stop – my siblings depended on me, and I had to keep pushing forward.
To add to the chaos, I received the shocking diagnosis of thyroid cancer. The fear of my mortality loomed, but I knew I had to fight. The physical and emotional toll was immense as I underwent treatments, but I had to remain strong for myself and my family.
My dreams of a college degree became a beacon of hope in the darkness. I saw education as an opportunity for personal growth and a chance to create a better future for my family. It was the driving force that kept me moving forward, even when I felt like giving up. Through the support of friends, mentors, and counseling, I found the strength to carry on. I learned to ask for help and lean on my support network when I needed it the most. Gradually, I realized that I didn’t have to carry the weight of the world alone – it was okay to let others in and share the load.
That despite everything l went through, the only reason I made it is because of my faith in God! He’s kept my mind and healed my body and soul. To God be all the glory for all the things he has done!
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might need to become more familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
Outside of working in the healthcare field, I have a business called 2 Blessed Friends Co., a custom crafting business that my best friend and I founded in February 2021. Our primary focus is creating personalized apparel and keepsakes for personal and business use. Amidst the pandemic, we wanted to bless people, offering unique and thoughtful creations that bring joy and meaning to their lives. It’s been an incredible journey of creativity and connecting with our customers, making every item a heartfelt expression of care and dedication.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
- Likes: Rich history; Saint Louis boasts a fascinating history with iconic landmarks like the Gateway Arch and historic neighborhoods.
- Cultural diversity: The city offers a diverse range of cultures, cuisines, and festivals, creating a vibrant atmosphere.
- Sports culture: St. Louis Cardinal’s, St. Louis City SC, and The St. Louis Battle hawks
- Green spaces: Saint Louis is home to beautiful parks, such as Forest Park, providing recreational opportunities and scenic views.
- Dislikes: Crime rate; some areas in Saint Louis have higher crime rates, which can concern residents and visitors.
- Racial and socioeconomic disparities: Like many cities, Saint Louis faces disparities between neighborhoods and communities.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/KaySpeech_/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FutureMeDPhd/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/krystalrwilson/
Image Credits
My Best Friend Geneva Hunt
