Unwavering Resilience: Kandi’s Stage 3 Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma Story
Kandi is an Alabama native and a vibrant, loving mother and wife who enjoys making people smile. Her world was turned upside-down when she was diagnosed with a rare cancer, stage 3 adenoid cystic carcinoma, in April 2024. Though her family has a history of cancer, Kandi initially shrugged off symptoms like severe fatigue, persistent daily headaches, her tongue sometimes feeling like it was on fire, and anxiety, thinking that they were due to postpartum changes after she gave birth to her third child.
Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Chris Sanchez
One day, Kandi found herself struggling to swallow and discovered a large blockage in her mouth. This prompted her to visit an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist (otolaryngologist), which led to her jarring diagnosis of stage 3 adenoid cystic carcinoma. Without hesitation, she underwent surgery on April 22nd, where doctors removed 30 lymph nodes, thankfully finding no cancer in them. Her second surgery took place a few days later, during which doctors removed the tumor itself.
Kandi’s road to recovery wasn’t smooth. She faced the fear of not being able to talk and the adjustments to life with feeding tubes. Yet, her determination to recover quickly saw her taking oral medications by the time she left the hospital. Through it all, Kandi leaned on her faith, attributing her strength to God’s work in her life and the incredible support from friends and family.
Post-surgery, some of Kandi’s doctors considered radiation. However, her radiologist advised against it due to her young age and recovery, sparing her from radiation’s potential side effects. This aligned with Kandi’s desire to pursue a more natural path, involving a clean diet and natural supplements. She also realized the critical role of nutrition and stress management in her recovery journey.
Despite her fears and the psychological effects of her rare cancer diagnosis of stage 3 adenoid cystic carcinoma, Kandi emerged stronger, driven by a newfound appreciation for life. Her ordeal has shifted her perspective, helping her cherish family time and the simple pleasures of life. She acknowledges the “scanxiety” that cancer survivors face but chooses to focus on the positives.
Kandi encourages others facing similar experiences to keep their faith, stay positive, and lean on their support systems. Her story is one of resilience, emphasizing the importance of mental strength and a healthy lifestyle in overcoming challenges.
Watch Kandi’s story to learn more about:
- Unwavering positivity amidst chaos and uncertainty.
- Family and faith as pillars of strength.
- Fostering a new outlook on life post-diagnosis.
- How community support fuels and supports recovery.
- Name:
- Kandi B.
- Age at Diagnosis:
- 32
- Diagnosis:
- Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma
- Staging:
- Stage 3
- Symptoms:
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Depression
- Occasional feeling of tongue being on fire/inflamed
- Appearance of tumor on salivary gland on tongue
- Treatment:
- Surgery
This interview has been edited for clarity. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider to make treatment decisions.
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