Community Feature - Ananais: Pharmacy Tech, Left Arm Amputee & Cancer Survivor

If Ananais' story below touches you, please consider donating to her GoFundMe.

Tell us about yourself! What's your story?

Thank you for thinking of me! I’m so happy and blessed to share my story with the bloom community. ♡ My name is Ananais Aden-Swoope. I was raised by my wonderful mom, Karen Aden. She raised my sister, Arielle, and myself as a single mom. She did an amazing job. I'm a pharmacy technician. I love what I do. I also love reading, binge watching Bravo and going to the casino with one of my best friends, Natalie. In 2022, I was diagnosed with a rare tumor called AFH - angiomatoid fibrous histocytoma. It was located in my left upper underarm.

Because I sought treatment for the incredible amount of pain I was in, I ended up spending too much time at one hospital. When they couldn’t find anything I sought a second opinion from another hospital. They were able to find this tumor. Unfortunately, it was too late. It began to spread and in order to remove it 100% they had to amputate my left arm. This news was unexpected to say the least, but if this was what I had to do to get rid of it, then I would. I had my arm amputated September 23rd, 2022. It was a 7-hour procedure. I spent weeks in recovery.

I was then discharged to rehab for 14 days. I had 3 hours of occupational and physical therapy weekly. This place was amazing and helped me learn to become more independent. I was discharged to go home October 19th. I spent majority of my time at my mom's house. We actually ended up moving in together. Later in December, I was diagnosed with lung cancer. The same tumor that was in my left arm has migrated to my left lower lobe. Sadly it is stage 4. Only because this tumor has been in two different locations. I have to undergo radiation treatment. I’m having 5 sessions over 5 days. I’m praying this is my last battle with this tumor!

Who or what is your biggest inspiration?

My biggest inspirations are my mom and sister. My mom went to college while taking care of two little girls. She got a degree in surgical nursing. My sister had my niece in 2012. Her name is Jordynn. She is the smartest, sweetest and funniest girl, and I love watching her grow up. Arielle is really a great mom!

Ananais (bottom right), her mother Karen (bottom left), her sister Arielle (top left), and her niece Jordynn (top right)

What are you passionate about and why?

I’m passionate about my relationship with God and reading. Anyone who knows me know I love to read - Harry Potter is one of my favorite book series. This year I’m working on my relationship with God. I’m praying more and reading the Bible too. My faith is very important to me, especially after these past two years.

What are some life lessons that have helped shape you?

My grandma, Gloria Aden, and great grandma, Maude Ester Williams, have taught me some life lessons. Whenever I need advice I would call my grandma and she would give me an earful. My great-grandma loved the Lord. She answered her phone saying "Praise the Lord" - lol. She stayed praying in her prayer closet. Seeing how much she loved the Lord and would continually praise him helped shaped the type of relationship I wanted to have with God.

What is your message to anyone going through a similar situation that you had?

I would tell anyone going through what I'm going through to keep fighting. When you feel that something is not right in your own body - believe it! Don’t let anyone talk you down. You have to be your own advocate.

If you could talk to your past self, what advice would you give yourself and others?

I would tell my former self to spend more time with my family. They are the most important people God put in your life.

What are some key books/learning experiences that helped shape you into who you are today?

The best learning experience was picking the right friends. I’m thankful that I learned this lesson early on. The group of friends I have now are amazing. I know I can depend on them. Patty, Natalie, Lexie, Catrice, Lizzy and Emily - just to name a few. They say people come into your life for a reason, season or lesson. I’m happy to say that these girls will be lifelong friends. The key books I have read are the Bible and other books have helped me strengthen my relationship with God.

What does being a part of the bloom community mean to you, and what is your favorite bloom product?

I became interested in these planners because I was trying to become more organized. When I came across bloom, I was instantly drawn to them. The planners were gorgeous and I love all the motivational quotes and inspirations they provide to help me become the best version of myself. My favorite bloom product is their brand-new Chronic Illness Planner. It helps keep all my daily radiation appointments, doctor's appointments and physical therapy organized. Also, Emily and the entire bloom community have been very supportive. This community is the best! 😀

- Ananais

If Ananais' story below touches you, please consider donating to her GoFundMe.

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Ananais, thank you for sharing your story and being an incredible member of this community! To Karen, Arielle, and the Aden-Swoope family and friends, thank you for your incredible support. Much love, the bloom family. xoxo