Tonya’s Story

Tonya Sahlstrom's diagnosis came in the middle of an ordinary moment—one that should have been filled with celebration.

“It was my son’s birthday,” she shared. “We were walking through the store looking for a football that he wanted.”

In an instant, everything changed.

“I was in complete shock. All I could think about were my three boys and how I would tell them.”

At the time, her sons were just 10, 8, and 6 years old. Like so many mothers, her first thought wasn’t about herself—it was about them.

Diagnosed on August 9, 2013, Tonya began a journey that would leave lasting physical and emotional effects.

“It has had physical and emotional impacts on my life. I’m still dealing with neuropathy and fatigue after 12 years.”

One of the most difficult parts of treatment was something she didn’t fully expect.

“I was really surprised at how fatigued I was after chemo and radiation. I underestimated the fatigue for sure.”

Through it all, her family became her foundation.

“I truly had so many people, but my sister was my biggest help.”

Her sister showed up in ways that went far beyond expectation—driving an hour early in the morning, with her own child, just to be there.

“She would come to my house at 5:30 in the morning… and she did this with no hesitation.”

Her father was another constant source of support, bringing her to clinical trials in Boston every month for two years.

“I really am so blessed for my family.”

And it wasn’t just Tonya who was supported—her entire community stepped in to care for her children.

“So many people helped with my three boys. Family and friends came together to make sure my boys were okay.”

Looking back, Tonya reflects on what she wishes she had given herself more of during that time.

“I think I would have tried to give myself more grace and rest more.”

It’s a lesson she now shares openly with others.

“Give yourself grace. Rest when you feel tired—the housework will still be there. Don’t sweat it.”

Her perspective extends beyond the individual going through cancer—it includes the people who love them, too.

“Tell family and friends you love them. They are going through it with you.”

And when it comes to support, her message is clear and deeply honest.

“Let them be tired. Let them cry and yell. Be there to listen—not to judge or preach. Just show them love and comfort.”

Now, more than a decade later, Tonya is experiencing a moment she’s waited a long time for.

“This year is special because I finally got my reconstructive surgery… and I feel normal again.”

After 12 years of navigating the long-term effects of cancer, that milestone represents something profound—a sense of healing, of closure, and of reclaiming herself.

Tonya’s story is one of endurance, love, and the power of showing up—for yourself and for each other.