Coffee Date Catch Up: August '25

In April 2024, I started having some strange auditory symptoms, so I made an appointment to get them checked out.

Never did I expect that a routine order of bloodwork—and the discovery of mild anemia—would lead to so many more tests. After all, I’d been healthy my whole life! But something was off with the size and shape of my red blood cells. Many more blood draws and a hematologist referral later, I was scheduled for a bone marrow biopsy. (For the record: 0/10, would not recommend.)

The biopsy, along with genetic testing, confirmed last October that I have Myelodysplastic Syndrome, or MDS. Before the auditory stuff, I had been cooking up plans for ProvCo’s relaunch, but everything was put on hold as I tried to process this strange diagnosis. Some doctors classify MDS as a rare blood cancer, others as a pre-leukemia. It’s a complicated, widely variable disease that looks different for each person depending on genetic factors and age. I was considered “young” for this diagnosis, since it usually affects older people.

To be honest, I kind of freaked out. Instead of responding with faith, I responded with “research” and worry. Relaunching the shop was the last thing on my mind. I was just getting by: handling only the most pressing responsibilities and little else. My thoughts were crowded, and I was not in a place of peace or surrender.

Then came SEEK ’25. (A big professional leap as attending as a small business is no small investment!) While I was there, sitting in adoration with thousands of fellow Catholics, something inside me began to shift. I had felt the Lord calling me to surrender for years, but in this moment, I saw it from a new angle. Peace came. I realized that everything belongs to Him anyway, and that He has allowed this for some greater good. I began to see just how little control I actually have, and how perfect His plan is if we only trust in it.

Since my diagnosis, I’ve found a new focus, a deeper reliance, and a greater trust in my Creator. During this time, I’ve illustrated a new children’s book with Word on Fire (details to come!), created a tote bag in honor of Our Lady that I’m so glad exists, and most recently, I’ve been working on a book in honor of St. Joseph (we LOVE “Papa Joe” as he's affectionately known around here).

I’ve been hesitant to share this personal news. Providential Co. has never really been the place for it, but I realized that if it can help even one person, it’s worth sharing. My disease is rare, but sadly, cancer isn’t anymore. Still, God is greater than all of this. He carries us through every storm. We are one body in Christ, and that unity means we hold one another up as we make our way through this valley of tears. We aren't meant to journey alone!

All that to say: I am hopeful, y’all. There are exciting things in the works, and as the Lord once told me in prayer: “The time for fear is over.” If you're in a similar boat, know that I'm praying for you, and that God never abandons His children.

Hugs,
Tricia