Bye Bitch! My last day of chemo party

By Lauren O’Connell

I can't believe I broke the bell!

I started chemotherapy for breast cancer on February 22, 2023, and finished on July 5, 2023—133 days later. To mark this monumental milestone, I threw a huge "Bye Bitch!" party right in the infusion room during my final dose at the hospital. My friends, husband, and kids joined in the celebration. We had a custom cake, bubbly mocktails, tasty bites, pink Mardi Gras beads, and customized "Bye Bitch!" bamboo fans. The room was decked out with a power-woman-themed Spotify playlist, breast cancer-themed balloons, and plenty of chairs for everyone.

I get by with a little help from my friends 🩷

I even had the hospital staff wear necklaces to join in the fun and decorated my IV pole. A professional photographer captured every moment!

I waited 5 long months for this moment. Look at my husband next to me!

Tears flowed as I gave a heartfelt speech before cutting the cake, overwhelmed with gratitude for my family, especially my husband, who had been by my side through nearly every doctor appointment, test, scan, surgery, and infusion. (He only missed one session due to catching a virus from our son, and I insisted he stay home to avoid spreading it to me!)

Here’s to conquering cancer with a whole lot of love and a selfie or two.

I was also deeply thankful for my friends who supported me through chemo sessions, sent constant texts and voice notes, visited me at home, and showered me with love. My family and friends back home, who checked in daily, made me feel incredibly supported.

My kids asked me why I chose an inappropriate word for my party. I told them in this case, it was very appropriate!

As I finished chemo, I had a renewed perspective on life and a commitment to celebrate everything—big and small. After my oncology nurse removed the port, it was time to ring the bell, a moment I had been eagerly anticipating. Everyone lined up with pink party poppers, the photographer was ready, and I went a bit overboard, accidentally breaking the bell! Oops!

Ending chemo on a high note.

Despite the surprise, I kept ringing it, taking it as a sign from the Universe that I’m never coming back. My last day of chemo had come and gone. I was finally free.