This is actually my 2nd attempt to take the CAP Prep Course by Marie Herman. Last year I had big professional development plans. I was going to go to Summit, CAPStone, CAP Prep Course...all the things. Then 2020 happened. Like most, I had to scale back on all professional development activity that I had planned. I contacted Marie early on and she kindly refunded my deposit for the course and I promised myself I would sign up again as soon as I was able. Early 2021 comes along and CFA reinstates professional development funds - I was ready!! After talking things over with my manager we both decided it would be ok if I signed up to take the class and test in the fall. I was so excited! I think I may have been one of Marie's first students to sign up for this current class, lol. I got my book and e-reader, had a study plan set - I felt good. I was ready to tackle this beast! Until April came along. In early April of this year I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer (my 2nd time). But unlike the first time, this time I was going to be going through chemo therapy - of which I was (and am) terrified. Besides the heath issues I was also upset that here I was again facing the decision to have to pull back from this journey. I knew even prior to diagnosis that this wasn't going to be a cake walk and it would be a lot of work. Knowing that and looking at what was ahead of me I wasn't sure what to do. So, I reached out to Marie. She of course was so kind and assured me that if I wanted to continue I could. If I needed to watch the recordings that, that would be ok. But, she also assured me that the CAP isn't going anywhere and I could try again once this is all behind me (which I truly appreciate). But, I am a stubborn soul and I REALLY wanted to do this, so doing this is what was going to happen! I've had several colleagues ask me why I'm still moving forward with this with all that's going on and honestly, it's just for me. CFA isn't asking me too. I'm not going to get a raise if I pass. There's nothing that will change with my roll. This is truly just something for me - to know that I did something for myself and my career and that I didn't let some diagnosis get in my way. Not to mention, I think this class and readings will be a welcome distraction through everything! Marie had us all howling in our first class and trust me, I need that right now lol And yes, if I don't pass this time it will be very disappointing but I will still have walked away learning something and that's what's important too. So here's to learning new things and laughing along the way

Hi Tara, thank you so much for being so transparent with your CAP journey story. I love reading the various reasons everyone has for achieving this goal. First of all, I want to wish you the very best with your chemo and breast cancer treatments. I also want to congratulate you for taking this next step in your personal and professional development. I hope the studies provide the distraction you are hoping for as your CAP journey and your journey toward recovery intertwine. Best wishes with your studies!

Best of luck in your certification journey.

Tara, having been in numerous virtual classes with you, I KNOW you will do well!  Best of luck to you!  Go get 'em!

Good luck!

Tara - My thoughts and positive vibes are with you. Good luck in your certification journey. Thank you for your inspiring post.

Best wishes on your CAP certification journey.

Sending you thoughts and positive vibes as you go through this journey. Thank you for your transparency and your determination to not only beat cancer, but to achieve your goal of becoming certified.

Positive thoughts being sent your way as you go through your journey.  You sound like a strong, determined woman and when you set a goal, you accomplish it.  BEST OF LUCK to you!  

Tara,
My mother is a breast cancer survivor. So I appreciate you sharing that with us. I am confident that the certification journey will be a good distraction for you. I also applaud your determination to complete your certification despite your personal obstacles. Thank you for sharing your certification journey. I wish you all the best on your personal and professional journeys.