"Warrior Carrying a Boulder" by Crystal Walcott: Choosing Strength After Breast Cancer

In this empowering episode of Still I Rise, Crystal Walcott shares her journey through breast cancer, resilience, and the deliberate choice to reclaim joy. Diagnosed after her first mammogram, Crystal’s life shifted in an instant — from a celebration of family, faith, and milestones to navigating surgery, recovery, and life-altering change.

Using the metaphor of a warrior carrying a boulder, Crystal reflects on the emotional weight cancer brings — the fear, grief, and anger — and the strength required to keep moving forward. Through the love of her husband, the humor and wisdom of her children, and a mindset rooted in faith and gratitude, she learned that happiness is not something we wait for — it’s something we choose.

This episode explores life after breast cancer, body image, resilience, motherhood, and what it means to carry your scars with grace. It’s a reminder that while the boulder may never disappear completely, it can grow lighter — and even beautiful — over time.

If you’re walking through cancer, recovery, or a season that feels impossibly heavy, this story will remind you that you are stronger than the weight you carry.