When fitness Instagrammer Cheyann Shaw found out she had ovarian cancer in August, the diagnosis challenged her identity. She'd prided herself on keeping her body strong, but suddenly, its very survival was at stake.
Two photos posted to her Instagram @cheymarie_fit two months ago show how the disease changed her, Self reports. In one, posted about a year ago, she's showing off a bikini in a fitness show. In the second, she's bald from chemotherapy — but still smiling.
She explained that she hasn't given up her enthusiasm for fitness — or any of her passions. "Thankfully, we have caught it in enough time that I am still able to fight and can kick ovarian cancer's ass and be in remission one day, hopefully soon," she wrote. "I still go to the gym, I still laugh, cry, sing (horribly), and just enjoy each and every second of every single day."
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In another set of photos posted two weeks ago, she reveals the weight loss that resulted from the chemo. But she still shares a message of hope.
"This is the toughest battle I have and will ever face, but I know I can do it," she wrote. "The hardest part of all this is my body change. I have a hard time looking at myself in the mirror, but I'm learning to love myself again, and I know this is only temporary. Once I get the clear light to workout, I'll be in the gym banging those weights."
While ovarian cancer is rare in women in their 20s like Shaw, doctors recommend getting a pelvic exam every two years to check for it.
In addition to chemo, Shaw has undergone a hysterectomy and surgery on her colon, appendix, and spleen, according to People. She's hopeful that she's gotten it under control in time, and her resolution to stay positive in the meantime is inspiring.