Chapter 1: Interlude to a Degree: Autoethnographic Reflections on Dissertating After a Cancer Diagnosis

This chapter describes the lived experiences of the author who, during the final stages of her doctoral program, was diagnosed with breast cancer. It showcases how her dissertation helped her cope with this devastating diagnosis. Through autoethnography, the author analyzes textual and visual artifacts to reflect on her multiple, fluid identities: graduate student, mother, wife, friend, daughter, cancer patient and, ultimately, a successful PhD graduate and cancer survivor.