A Year On: What Cancer Taught Me About Courage, Creativity & Colour
One year ago today, I was diagnosed with early stage breast cancer.
I’ve gone back and forth about whether to write this post. But if there’s one thing the past year has taught me, it’s that vulnerability can be a powerful connector. And while I don’t intend to turn this space into a health journal, I do want to share a few things this journey taught me — about life, creativity, and the spaces we call home.
So here it is: a little personal reflection, a peek behind the scenes, and a bright look ahead at what’s coming next for Stella + the Stars.
The Pause That Changed Everything
Last year, I took a six-month break from my business. Surgery, recovery, hormonal treatment — my body demanded rest, and for once, I listened. What I didn’t expect was how deeply this pause would transform my mindset.
Slowing down gave me space to think. To feel. To really ask myself: What kind of creative life do I want to live? What kind of projects light me up? What do I want my work-life balance to actually look like?
But it wasn’t easy. Not at all.
Telling my kids I had breast cancer was, hands down, one of the toughest things I’ve ever had to do. Even though it was caught early and treatable, those first few weeks were honestly terrifying — the kind of emotional rollercoaster you don’t get a seatbelt for.
But I was so lucky. I didn’t need heavy treatment, my husband was an absolute rock, and my incredible friends wrapped me up in the kind of support that deserves its own Pinterest board. they got me through it with love, humour, and a lot of tissues.
Coming Home to Colour
During recovery, I finally tackled the interiors projects I’d been putting off in my own home. Isn’t it funny how we always prioritise everyone else’s spaces before our own?
I refreshed our living and dining rooms, made small but mighty updates, and completely transformed how our home feels. And honestly? It was healing in every sense.
Styling, for me, has always been more than making things look pretty. It’s joy, expression, storytelling. Our home became my sanctuary again. And in the process, I fell back in love with what I do.
The Spark That’s Been Reignited
So what’s next? Well… watch this space. But since you’re here (and I love a bit of public accountability), here’s a little preview of what’s bubbling behind the scenes:
🌟 Style It Like a Star – My First Course
After years of dreaming about it, I’m finally creating a course for homeowners and aspiring stylists who want to learn how to style their space with confidence.
Think: practical tips, pre-recorded videos, beautiful downloads… and, of course, that signature Stella + the Stars sparkle. A free mini-module is coming soon, so stay tuned!
🤝 Collaborations + Creative Play
This year I’m opening the doors to exciting partnerships — with brands, creators, and fellow design-lovers who share my passion for colourful interiors and authentic creativity.
✍️ More Blogging (Finally!)
Writing has always been a love of mine, and this blog is about to get a lot more love. Expect styling tips, behind-the-scenes peeks, and honest chats about what it’s really like running a creative biz after a life curveball.
Bold New Chapter: Our Dubai Investment Flats
Here’s something I’m really excited about.
Over the past couple of years, I’ve teamed up with my husband and one of our closest friends to invest in a handful of one-bedroom flats in Dubai. I’ve taken on my dream role: transforming tired rentals into stylish, modern, Stella-fied apartments that command a higher rental value.
We’ve already completed three and I’m about to start styling the fourth. It’s been such a creative joy — and who knows, maybe this turns into a consulting gig on the side!
Final Thoughts: Life, Styled With Intention
This past year has been one of the hardest of my life. But also, strangely, one of the richest. Cancer shook everything up — and somehow, helped me rebuild something even better.
I’m no longer chasing hustle for the sake of it. I want to create with heart. Build a business that works for my life, not against it. Be present with my family. Style spaces that make people feel something special. Work with people who have a sparkle in their eyes.
If you’ve had your own curveball lately, I hear you. And when the dust settles, follow the spark. That tiny flicker of joy, curiosity, this could be something — it knows the way.
Here’s to colour, courage, and creating the life (and home) that sets your soul on fire.
With love,
Emilie
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