Everything You Need to Know about Beating Cancer (But Didn’t Even Know to Ask)

When Rachel was diagnosed with a rare – and terminal – form of cancer (and given only a ten percent chance of surviving even her first visit to the hospital) she went in an instant from a carefree twenty-six-year-old young woman to someone who had to suddenly make the most profound and complex legal, moral, medical and practical decisions humanly possible. Not only didn’t Rachel know the answers; often she didn’t even know the questions.

When Rachel got well, she decided to help others who suddenly find themselves in that position and started the non-profit United Cancer Advocacy Action Network (UCAAN). Since its inception, UCAAN has helped tens of thousands of people navigate the way through the process and to live longer and healthier lives. In 2014, Rachel Shur, Cancer Survivor Extraordinaire was recognized and commended by President Barack Obama with the National Gold Presidential Volunteer Service Award for her work with UCAAN.

While the topic may sound depressing, All the things i wish i knew when i had Cancer is as joyous and life-affirming as is Rachel herself.