There’s a fine line between merely existing and truly thriving, and few exemplify this better than a spirited 90-year-old woman from Michigan named Edna, who chose a grand road trip instead of undergoing cancer treatment.
After losing her husband, Frank, in July 2015, Edna received a diagnosis of uterine cancer just two days later. Faced with a list of medical options, she pondered her life ahead without her partner of 67 years. In a bold move, Edna told her doctor, “I’m 90 years old; I’m hitting the road!” and embarked on an unforgettable, open-ended journey with her retired son, Jake.
Jake and his wife, Tara, live in an RV and have been traveling coast to coast with Edna. They share their adventures on a Facebook page aptly named “Traveling with Edna”, where they’ve captivated over 140,000 followers. In about six months, they’ve explored stunning beaches, picturesque lakes, fascinating museums, Disneyland, the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, and even soared high in a hot air balloon!
In their Facebook bio, Jake and Tara initially worried that doctors might think them reckless for not pushing Edna toward treatment. To their surprise, the physician offered unwavering support: “We explained to the well-meaning doctor that we live in an RV and will take her wherever she desires. He didn’t hesitate to say, ‘RIGHT ON!’ We asked if he thought us irresponsible for this approach. His reply was revealing. ‘As doctors,’ he said, ‘we see what cancer treatment looks like every day. ICU, nursing homes, awful side effects, and honestly, there’s no guarantee she will survive the surgery to remove the mass. You are doing exactly what I would want to do in this situation. Have a fantastic trip!’”
Currently, Edna is free from pain and continues to relish her travels across the country. She told the Good News Network that her cancer symptoms have diminished, crediting her positive outlook to daily prayers and taking life one day at a time. “Just keep on going every day,” she says, “that’s about it.”
Edna is amazed by the overwhelming response to her story, and it’s easy to see why. Her son is doing something remarkable by guiding his mother on this journey, and Edna herself is an extraordinary individual. In just a few weeks, she faced the loss of her husband and a cancer diagnosis, yet she found the strength to not only carry on but to embrace life to the fullest. Her road trip serves as a powerful reminder to cherish every moment and not take a single day for granted.
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In summary, Edna’s journey showcases the power of living fully and making memorable choices, even in the face of adversity.