My husband Tyler and I welcomed our sweet baby boy, Myles, in August of 2024 — and he is absolutely who we get up for every single morning. Tyler and I met while we were both in school in North Dakota, and from very early on, we knew we had something special. We’ve always loved to laugh together, and even in the middle of life’s chaos, that joy has been a constant. Tyler is originally from California and often gets asked, “Why the heck are you in Lethbridge?!” The answer is simple: family. He gave up so much to be here in Canada with us, and we love him endlessly for it.

Life has thrown us more than a few curveballs, and we never seem to take the easy route, but those experiences have built deep love, resilience, and a partnership we’re incredibly proud of. Myles is truly the light of our lives. Watching him grow and experience the world for the first time has been pure magic. Right now, we’re keeping family rituals simple and meaningful — singing songs when he wakes and before bed, reading lots of books, playing with cars, and exploring parks. We’re excited for mountain days ahead filled with fishing, swimming, hiking, and picnics together.

Tyler and I were over the moon to welcome our baby. We chose not to find out the gender ahead of time, which made the anticipation even more special. My pregnancy was mostly healthy, though like many first-time moms, I experienced moments of worry and uncertainty. I had no idea something far more serious was happening beneath the surface.

At my 39-week appointment, everything changed. Within days, I was diagnosed with cancer. What should have been one of the most beautiful and joyous seasons of our lives suddenly became clouded with fear and unknowns. Still, Myles arrived full term and healthy. Becoming his mom brought an overwhelming mix of deep joy, intense gratitude, and a fierce love I had never known before. He became my anchor. I knew instantly I needed to fight — not just for myself, but for him.

Treatment and postpartum recovery were incredibly hard on my body. Pregnancy, a C-section, IVF for embryo preservation, radiation, and chemotherapy all within months left me exhausted and feeling like a shell of who I once was. When I was cleared to move again, starting felt intimidating. My body felt unfamiliar and fragile.

The Baby Mama community gave me a safe place to begin again — slowly and with grace. I started small, listened to my body, and showed up. I don’t always lift the heaviest weights or have the endurance I once did, but I try. Being surrounded by women who understand motherhood in all its complexity made an enormous difference. In that space, I get to simply be a mom — not a cancer patient, not someone to be pitied — just a mom to a busy, beautiful little boy.

This season completely redefined strength for me. Before, I thought strength was mostly physical. Now I know it looks like vulnerability, asking for help, advocating for yourself, and showing up even when it feels impossible. Motherhood deepened that understanding. We can feel overwhelmed and unsure we have anything left to give — yet we continue to love fiercely and show up for our children anyway. That is strength in its truest form.

If I could share one message with another new mom facing a difficult diagnosis, it would be this: you are stronger and more resilient than you realize. Lean on your village. Let people show up for you. One day, the strength you gain in this season will allow you to light the way for someone else.

Kaitee, thank you so much for being vulnerable and sharing your story with your community. We are so proud, and inspired, to call you a Baby Mama 💜 Sending you continued health and sheer joy being a mama to Myles 🫶🏽