Katie Thurston, a valiant alum from Season 17 of "The Bachelorette," remains steadfast in her hope as she bravely battles stage 4 breast cancer. Amid her ongoing journey, she has unveiled that her impending health assessment will offer crucial insights into the transformation of her tumor.
"On July 7th, I'll undergo a significant scan to gauge the efficacy of my medication against my tumor," Katie disclosed in a poignant Instagram video posted on July 3rd. "Ideal results would entail no growth or even a reduction in size."
Almost half a year has passed since the 34-year-old courageously shared her cancer diagnosis, yet she has discovered methods to savor life's moments amidst this trying period. "As those monthly scans and appointments come and pass, I grant myself the subsequent 28 days to momentarily forget that I have cancer," Katie, who was immersing herself in a Greek getaway during this update, expressed. "I believe cancer necessitates a shift in mindset—not purely optimism, but a retraining of thought patterns."
The reality TV star unveiled that her oncologist has never imparted the specifics of her remaining time, nor has she inquired. She added, "Stage 4 carries a daunting psychology at times, as it signifies a perpetual battle."
While keeping her fans updated on her cancer struggle, Katie imparted some positive news: her skin biopsies had returned benign, and their hotel in Greece had generously upgraded their room. Nonetheless, she admitted that these positives stirred a tinge of unease within her.
"A small fragment of me feels akin to a dog receiving a final burst of energy before its end," she shared tearfully. "I don't intend to make this a somber video; I merely aim to be truthful that cancer has become an ingrained aspect of my daily existence."
Despite the heavy weight of Katie's diagnosis on her and her husband, Jeff Arcuri, they cherish their moments together as her treatment continues. "Here in Greece, amidst vacation, I indulged in wine, savored desserts, and created memories," she recounted. "For what purpose is it to refrain from living when each day is a gift, when life is bestowed upon you?"
She further shared, "So far, things are on a positive trajectory."
Katie has persistently shared her journey with her fans, embracing both the peaks and valleys. Last month, she openly admitted in a video that she was grappling with memory loss and experiencing unusual hair loss.
Continuing her fight, she encouraged her fans, "I have just completed my second month of treatment, and technically, it's a lifelong journey. I harbor optimism regarding future medical advancements. Keeping my fingers crossed as a stage 4 warrior."