Alicia Burns: Living Louder and Bolder Through Cancer and Beyond

Alicia Burns has always had a sharp sense of humor, a bold spirit, and an independent streak. But when she was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in October of 2023, she faced her greatest test of resilience yet.

She knew something wasn’t quite right months before her official diagnosis. The doctors were still running tests, but deep down, she had a feeling about what was coming. Instead of waiting in fear, she and her husband, Joe, decided to take a three-week trip through Europe. She wasn’t going to let the unknown keep her from experiencing life to the fullest. When the call finally came, confirming her suspicions, she did what came naturally—she thanked the doctor, signed off politely, and continued with her work call. Then, she took a deep breath and moved forward.

Throughout her treatment, Alicia made a conscious choice. She would not wallow. She would not let cancer define her. She leaned into humor, finding levity in even the hardest moments, because she knew her mindset mattered. She made changes where they counted—adjusting her diet, giving up alcohol, and keeping her body as strong as possible—but she never let go of her joy.

Instead, she lived even louder.

When chemotherapy threatened to take her hair, she took control and shaved it herself. She didn’t hide under wigs or scarves for long. The heat of the Florida sun made that impractical, but more importantly, she found a sense of freedom in embracing her new look. It wasn’t about conforming to expectations—it was about being unapologetically herself. And that same energy carried over into every aspect of her life. If she had something to say, she said it. She wasn’t waiting for permission anymore.

Then there was the convertible. A sleek, hard-top Mazda that she’d wanted for years. When she finally found the right one, her husband Joe didn’t hesitate—he knew she deserved it. It wasn’t just about the car; it was about living life fully, seizing the moment, and embracing every bit of happiness along the way.

Now, Alicia is looking ahead to her next chapter. She and Joe have bought land in a small town in Georgia, planning their future away from the bustle of city life. But retirement won’t mean slowing down. She’s dreaming of ways to stay engaged—maybe by opening a community food co-op to support local farmers and families. Whatever she does, it will be on her terms, with her signature boldness and a whole lot of heart.

If she could tell her younger self anything, it would be this: Be your authentic self. Don’t tailor yourself to fit others’ expectations. Push boundaries. Live boldly. And don’t let fear—or anyone else—dictate your path.

Alicia’s story is a testament to resilience, reinvention, and refusing to let life pass you by. No matter what challenges come her way, she’ll meet them head-on, with a smile, a sharp wit, and the top down on her convertible, driving full speed into the future.

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