About Me

My Mission

Amazon Bookstore

My Services

Discover My Bookshelf

Subscribe to My Monthly Newsletter

This Is My Story: From Pain to Purpose


I’m a professional freelance writer with over 23 years of experience. But my story is so much more than my words.

I’m also a cancer survivor, a woman living with chronic pain and nerve damage, and someone who had to rebuild her life after everything fell apart.

My story is not neat or easy. It’s raw. It’s real. And I’m sharing it because someone out there needs to know they’re not alone.

🎗 The Diagnosis That Changed Everything

A few years ago, I was diagnosed with stage 2B cervical cancer.

The word cancer shook me to my core.

Treatment was aggressive. Radiation and chemotherapy drained my body and spirit. And when it was over, I wasn’t the same. The nerve damage and mobility loss were permanent. The emotional weight was overwhelming.

I had survived cancer—but I didn’t feel whole.

What followed was a long, painful season of learning how to live in a body that no longer worked the way it once had. I faced days I couldn’t walk, nights filled with tears, and moments where I questioned whether I still had value.

But deep down, a quiet voice reminded me: this is not the end of your story.

✍️ Writing My Way Through the Darkness

Writing had always been part of my life, but during my recovery, it became my lifeline.

Through my blog, PrincessCrystalSays.com, I began to share my story—honestly, vulnerably, and without shame.

I didn’t sugarcoat the pain.

I didn’t pretend to be okay.

I just told the truth.

And that truth began to resonate. People started reaching out, thanking me for giving a voice to what they were feeling but couldn’t say.

💬 Creating Space for Others

Out of that connection, I created something powerful:

A private Facebook support group for those touched by cancer.

It’s now called the Dragon Strong Circle.

It’s a space where survivors, fighters, and caregivers come together to lift each other up. No judgment. Just love, support, and shared strength.

Through DragonStrongCircle.com, I also launched the Blanket of Love Mission—a drive to collect and donate 100 new throw blankets to cancer patients in Jacksonville, Florida. Because I remember how cold those hospital rooms were. And I know the warmth a small act of kindness can bring.

🧡 From Survivor to Mentor

Today, I use my story to mentor new writers, encourage cancer survivors, and speak life into those who are hurting. My blog is my platform, but my mission is bigger than me.

I want every person who reads my words to know this:

You are not your diagnosis.

You are not your past.

You are not broken beyond repair.

You are worthy. You are seen. And you still have purpose.

🌟 This Is Just the Beginning

I don’t have it all figured out. My body still hurts. I still face challenges every day. But I’ve found beauty in the ashes. Strength in the struggle. And joy in helping others find their light.

This is my story.

It’s not perfect—but it’s powerful.

And if it helps even one person feel less alone, then every moment of pain was worth it.

With hope,

Crystal

PrincessCrystalSays.com | DragonStrongCircle.com

Leave a comment