Send us a text

Here's a partial transcript of the interview. Lu was on an oxygen tank at the time of this interview and it might be hard to make out all of her words.

My name is Lutricia Milton. I am the last of ten children. I was born November 5th, 1970 at Charity Hospital in New Orleans, Louisiana. As far as I can remember, I had a good childhood. My mother sent my siblings and I to Mississippi to spend the summer with our grandparents. I enjoyed spending the summer with my grandparents. I learned most of my values unknown color. I learned most of my values and beliefs and Christianity from from them. Every morning we had to wake up to the sound of the rooster crow, make our bed, sweep the floors. Then we would rush out tea, wash our face, and sit at the table for breakfast. My grandmother would have breakfast ready for us Christians grits, eggs, bacon, sausage, homemade biscuit syrup and orange juice. And you could tell. I remember all of that. I remember we all had to say a Bible verse. We. For what we ate and had to give thanks to God. This was my life. Well, you know, childhood until I was 15 years old. Um, when I was 15 years old, I became pregnant and was too ashamed to tell my parents. So I went to Mississippi and apparently couldn't hide it from my grandparents either. So I went home to face the music. Um, I had an 8 pound, seven ounce baby girl on January 6th, 1987. I named her Alexis Dominique Nelson. She was the most beautiful baby that I ever seen. After having Alexis, I dropped out of high school because I was completely overwhelmed with life. Within 18 months later, I had another beautiful girl. I listened to Mitrice Nelson. She was 6 pounds when I when I was. I then realized I had to move out of my parent's home, and I applied for low income apartment and was approved to. I was 22 years old. I had no income from working and two babies to take care of. It seems as if my life is falling out of control. I enrolled in college. I received my Associate of Arts degree from Delgado Community College in 1996. Um, I havebeen. Two years later, my son was born Alonzo DeMarcus Milton. He was such a handsome and cute baby boy. I felt that I was finished with having kids after him. Then I met his father. In a year of his 8 pound 6oz was born. She was healthy. A healthy, beautiful baby girl. We were married for 20 years. He had his moments and so did I.

To see the entire transcript, visit You Night's Story Crafting Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/YouNightStories

Thank you to our sponsor, Dr. Martha Stewart, Board Certified Dermatologist.
Please SUBSCRIBE to this podcast so that you can be inspired by future interviews!

Support the show

Still I Rise features stories from You Night's STORY CRAFTING COMMUNITY. To read additional stories, visit our Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/YouNightStories. Would you like to participate in a 6-week Story Crafting small group experience so that you can share your story? Write to us at teamyounight@gmail.com

Send us a text

Excerpt from Dr. Leslie's story:

"I realized life had changed and everyone had moved on. It was time to let go. There are no parents to approve or disapprove of my choices. Who I am, choices I make, my views of the world and desires for the future are mine alone to decide.

This is my time and I’m not afraid. Rarely have I stopped and thought about being alone or even the prospect of dying. I have no time for nonsense, have always abhorred drama, and never waste energy on it. Anyone who knows me well has heard me say no amount of worrying will change things. It is what it is.

I’ve learned being vulnerable and accepting help isn’t weakness. Armoring up results in anger and hurt so heavy it suffocates. Who I am, what I believe, and how I live, is not up for discussion. Others’ opinions no longer have no weight. All the made up ‘rules’ are fading as is the pressure to maintain an image. The strength, warmth, and comfort of the fire that burns inside will light the way."

Thank you to our sponsor, Dr. Martha Stewart, Board Certified Dermatologist.
Please SUBSCRIBE to this podcast so that you can be inspired by future interviews!

Support the show

Still I Rise features stories from You Night's STORY CRAFTING COMMUNITY. To read additional stories, visit our Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/YouNightStories. Would you like to participate in a 6-week Story Crafting small group experience so that you can share your story? Write to us at teamyounight@gmail.com

Send us a text

An excerpt from Sharon's story:

"With my diagnosis, I was fortunate in the sense that although having cancer was scary, it was stage one, could be treated and that would hopefully be the end of it. I didn’t need chemo or radiation. I look back on that time in my life and it’s a blur. Between all of my appointments, helping my kids and everything else, I don’t remember much. Maybe it’s my body’s way of protecting me from what I went through - I don’t know. What I do know is that my family inspires me every day to be a better person - to handle difficult situations with grace and humor and to find some joy in every day.

In the beginning of my story, I was in the dark blue water and unable to reach the surface. There was also this awful dark cloud that I felt was over my family. Now, after some reflection, I realize the dark cloud was a passing storm and although other storms have come my way, they haven’t stayed forever. Having cancer changed me as a woman and as a person. It changed how I see the world and my attitude about everything.

My wisdom for the world:

• Don’t neglect your health or put off appointments
• Allow yourself to be photographed
• Mental health is just as important as physical health
• Find a therapist you trust"

Thank you to our sponsor, Dr. Martha Stewart, Board Certified Dermatologist.
Please SUBSCRIBE to this podcast so that you can be inspired by future interviews!

Support the show

Still I Rise features stories from You Night's STORY CRAFTING COMMUNITY. To read additional stories, visit our Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/YouNightStories. Would you like to participate in a 6-week Story Crafting small group experience so that you can share your story? Write to us at teamyounight@gmail.com

Send us a text

An excerpt from Pam's Story:

"There’s a new energy in the air making watching a summer thunderstorm magical. Hot water vapor in the air hugs my skin and drapes my body in a loving embrace, honeysuckle summer air, and living alongside loving people with good food, laughter, and joy is my new normal. It’s a lens few can see through, a perspective shift I’m privileged to enjoy the rest of my life.

Different, what I see and feel now embodies love and peace. Looking back, I remember what happened last year, sick with heartache as it was bred by intoxication with the present. I’m sad Mom passed, but I’m smiling because what we had is as rare as a four-leaf clover.

Today the water is calm at the ocean’s edge. So, if the whole world is shaking and nothing feels right, know wherever I am no matter how far, I’ll never fail to navigate the waters and feel empowered at its embrace. Today I found a piece of home at my ocean’s edge. Although it’s scary and I may have rather spent my summer in a place that doesn’t get stormy weather, I dive in and taste its salty specialness.

From my ocean’s edge to yours:

XO - P"

Thank you to our sponsor, Dr. Martha Stewart, Board Certified Dermatologist.
Please SUBSCRIBE to this podcast so that you can be inspired by future interviews!

Support the show

Still I Rise features stories from You Night's STORY CRAFTING COMMUNITY. To read additional stories, visit our Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/YouNightStories. Would you like to participate in a 6-week Story Crafting small group experience so that you can share your story? Write to us at teamyounight@gmail.com

Send us a text

An excerpt from Jessica's story:

Navigating adulthood, motherhood, and cancer, I learned to find solace in my children – Dalton, McDermott, and Olympia – whose vibrant personalities and bountiful love filled my life with joy and purpose, even amid the turmoil of illness. My husband Michael's quiet strength balanced my

anxious nature, and our family bond became a source of balance.

The rest of my family also provided (Mom Norah, Dad Tony, sister Vanessa, sister Emily and brother-in-law Paul) unwavering support and were instrumental in my determination. They never left my side, held me when I cried, and helped me find laughter when I thought it impossible. My mother especially became my caretaker, confidante, and personal chauffeur. We somehow found adventure and inside jokes (isn’t this fun?) as we navigated my cancer road together.My dearest friends were a source of blessings as well.

Furthermore, I was inspired by the resilience of others, like Nicky Newman, a stage-4 breast cancer warrior, whose zest for life despite terminal illness resonated deeply with me even though we didn’t share diagnoses. I adopted her mantra to "Go Grab Life." Nicky's legacy reminded me to cherish every moment, and live life to its fullest.

Today, I stand not as quicksand but as the mighty sea – powerful, serene, and capable of weathering life’s storms while embracing its joys. My journey with cancer has taught me the importance of living in the present, of finding beauty in everyday moments, and of nurturing resilience in the face of adversity.

Reflecting on my experience, I realize that while cancer imposed profound challenges, it also offered moments of introspection and growth. I've learned to navigate life with a renewed perspective, acknowledging that every situation possesses multiple angles, and that amidst hardship, there is room for joy, hope, and gratitude.

If I could distill my journey into wisdom for others, it would be to seize life with both hands, to cherish the present moment, and to nurture your inner positivity, strength and gratitude. Cancer has reshaped my life, not by altering my essence, but by reinforcing my capacity to embrace life with courage and optimism."

Thank you to our sponsor, Dr. Martha Stewart, Board Certified Dermatologist.
Please SUBSCRIBE to this podcast so that you can be inspired by future interviews!

Support the show

Still I Rise features stories from You Night's STORY CRAFTING COMMUNITY. To read additional stories, visit our Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/YouNightStories. Would you like to participate in a 6-week Story Crafting small group experience so that you can share your story? Write to us at teamyounight@gmail.com

Send us a text

Excerpt from Patti's Story:

"After 16 years of peaceful seas and recovery, another tidal wave hit me hard when Wayne passed away from lung cancer. Waves hit me constantly for the first year after his death, sometimes gently but other times with much force. Drawing from my Al-Anon recovery, I was able to express my grief and find acceptance. Gently, the waves moved me forward with new job opportunities, adventurous European vacations, my oldest daughter's marriage, which expanded our family with a loving son-in-law and grandson, and years of quiet seas.

Unexpectedly, in November 2023, a tsunami hit me! I had an abnormal mammogram, and after extensive tests, I found out that I had breast cancer. It was my worst nightmare come true! "First, I was afraid, I was petrified … but then I grew strong … It took all my strength not to fall apart … but no, not I, I will survive!" These are words from an old favorite song describing my feelings about this news. Waiting for the specifics was the hardest. However, the storm quickly lessened as the surgeon and his staff were incredible, giving me and my family hope, encouragement, and excellent care.

Having my family and friends encircle me on this journey has been priceless. I know my recovery in Al-Anon aided me through this storm. The first step reminds me that I am powerless. God is in control. Placing my trust in God has given me the fortitude to get through all the treatments, worries, and anxiety of my cancer journey. I'm learning to survive the swells! I've reached new levels of self-discovery. I'm now floating on the waves by reaching out to others nearby rather than being smashed ashore in other seas of my life. I'm receiving care and love from the SheRose group and extending my hand to give hope and courage to others in similar seas. I've learned the value of support and that I don't have to do this alone. Cancer has given me a new perspective on life - seeing what is truly important, being at peace with myself, living in the moment, and accepting all the waves in my life, gentle or raging. I am a cancer survivor, but this is not the end of my story, as I have opened my sails to new adventures."

Thank you to our sponsor, Dr. Martha Stewart, Board Certified Dermatologist.
Please SUBSCRIBE to this podcast so that you can be inspired by future interviews!

Support the show

Still I Rise features stories from You Night's STORY CRAFTING COMMUNITY. To read additional stories, visit our Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/YouNightStories. Would you like to participate in a 6-week Story Crafting small group experience so that you can share your story? Write to us at teamyounight@gmail.com

Send us a text

An excerpt from Lisa's story:

"The guiding light of my family is helping me through. I know they are as afraid as I am, but they do not let me see their fears. The tables turned and they have become my cheerleaders. From the fun, silly party in my honor the night before surgery to the hand holding through each chemo session, they made me smile. They made me fight harder than I believed I could. And they continue to be my source of strength as I navigate the post-treatment portion of this yellow brick road. I also have a 3-month-old grandchild now which has given me even more to fight for.

My family has grown recently with the addition of my pink sister community who continually show me compassion, empathy and share success stories to help with my struggle. My guess is that they do not realize how much they have positively impacted me. The love, laughter and tears at times have taught me lessons that are invaluable to reaching my goal of living each second of every day in joy.

Although I am still working on letting go of fear, I am having more good days than bad, and I allow myself grace if I slip into darkness for a bit. I feel I can see Emerald City and am ready to click my heels three times, however my slippers will be pink instead of red."

Thank you to our sponsor, Dr. Martha Stewart, Board Certified Dermatologist.
Please SUBSCRIBE to this podcast so that you can be inspired by future interviews!

Support the show

Still I Rise features stories from You Night's STORY CRAFTING COMMUNITY. To read additional stories, visit our Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/YouNightStories. Would you like to participate in a 6-week Story Crafting small group experience so that you can share your story? Write to us at teamyounight@gmail.com

Send us a text

An excerpt from Pam's Story:

"While this is one of the hardest moments of my life, there are some beautiful chapters in between. At the age of 24, I married my husband and had two amazing children. In my experience some people become their past and carry on the behavior in which they were raised or they become the exact opposite. I chose the latter. I made it my mission to be the best wife and mother I could be and to give my children a life that I only dreamed of. I made it to nearly every football game, dance competition, softball game, and every academic ceremony. My children are grown now, both are college graduates, and my daughter recently got married. My children have always been my world and will continue to be.

A word, a date, and a place rewrote my expectations for chapter 55. I was driving home and received a call from my doctor. I didn’t know that this would be another life changing call. She asked me to pull over and she uttered the words, “You have cancer.” The word cancer has boundless meanings for everyone, and my mind was filled with racing thoughts. Thankfully, I was diagnosed with stage 1 invasive ductal carcinoma. I told my husband and children about my diagnosis, but I tried to hide the fear. I kept myself busy trying not to think of all the possible outcomes. However, the Lord saw my tears at night and heard my every prayer.

March 14th of 2024 was the day I had my double mastectomy with reconstructive surgery. My family will now say how scared they all were because they didn’t know the extent of the surgery. I woke up in room 3012, ten hours later with two of those hours in recovery trying to stabilize my blood pressure. I don’t really remember anything from the first few days except for the pain. I have truly never been in pain like that, and it was jarring looking at my body for the first time with so many connecting scars that looked like a road map. Thankfully, a week later I was told that my cancer had not spread to my lymph nodes and that I did not have to have radiation or chemotherapy. I do, however, have to take medication for five years since the cancer was estrogen receptive. While the side effects are challenging, I am grateful that most of my racing thoughts did not come true.

Since then, I have physically recovered, but I am still working on my emotional recovery. I am so thankful to have a loving family and a Savior that never left my side. Another source of comfort has been being a part of the Sheroes group. I have met the most resilient, brave, and strong women that are actually real-life superheroes. They help me to see the silver lining and to know my book isn’t over."

Thank you to our sponsor, Dr. Martha Stewart, Board Certified Dermatologist.
Please SUBSCRIBE to this podcast so that you can be inspired by future interviews!

Support the show

Still I Rise features stories from You Night's STORY CRAFTING COMMUNITY. To read additional stories, visit our Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/YouNightStories. Would you like to participate in a 6-week Story Crafting small group experience so that you can share your story? Write to us at teamyounight@gmail.com