Though currently in remission, Bates continues to grapple with the lingering effects of her treatments, most notably lymphedema, a condition she faces with characteristic grace and resilience. Undeterred by the challenges she faces, she steadfastly refuses to allow her health struggles to define her, using her prominent platform to raise awareness and extend a compassionate hand of support to others traversing similar paths, serving as an ambassador for the LE&RN organization.
In her courageous odyssey, Bates exemplifies the very essence of resilience and purpose, offering a beacon of hope and inspiration to countless individuals confronting their own battles with illness and adversity. Her story stands as a powerful testament to the transformative power of determination, humor, and the unwavering support of a loving community, showcasing how even the darkest of challenges can be transformed into wellsprings of strength and resilience.