Janelle’s Stage 4 Adrenal Cancer Story: The Power of Persistence and Connection
Janelle is a spirited 42-year-old whose resilience shines through despite her rare diagnosis of stage 4 adrenal cancer. Her experience underscores the importance of self-advocacy, mental health, and the power of community support.
Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Chris Sanchez
Janelle’s health concerns began in 2013 with an unusual thirst — she was drinking as much as 300 oz of water daily. Despite numerous doctor visits, misdiagnoses, being gaslit, and even being dismissed as “attention-seeking,” her persistence never wavered. She navigated through multiple endocrinologists until her trusted primary care physician took her symptoms seriously. In 2021, a sudden sharp pain from a kidney stone led to a CT scan, revealing a four-centimeter mass on her adrenal gland — a life-saving discovery hidden behind unexpected agony.
The diagnosis? Stage 3 adrenal cancer (adrenocortical carcinoma), which later advanced to stage 4 adrenal cancer after it was found to have spread to Janelle’s lungs. The emotional weight of the news, compounded by family health crises and feelings of isolation, was overwhelming. But she found solace in connecting with others across the globe facing the same rare cancer. These connections became her anchor, offering an invaluable sense of belonging in a sea of uncertainty.
With a treatment plan involving an oral chemotherapy medicine derived from a compound as controversial as its history (it’s related to the banned pesticide DDT), Janelle faces harsh side effects: relentless fatigue, nausea, and more. Despite these challenges, her mental fortitude remains strong. She copes with the invisible nature of her illness, combating not just stage 4 adrenal cancer but also the misconceptions of those around her. Her husband’s unwavering support and the thought of her beloved niece fuel her determination.
Janelle’s message is clear: self-advocacy is non-negotiable. Her story is a testament to the importance of trusting your instincts, pushing for answers, and never settling when it comes to your health.
Watch Janelle’s video and find out more about:
- How a kidney stone turned out to be the unexpected hero of her life.
- The rare cancer community that spans continents and hearts.
- How Janelle’s persistence saw her through, even though she kept getting dismissed by doctors.
- The unseen battles and silent strength that are part and parcel of living with stage 4 adrenal cancer.
- The everyday heroes behind Janelle’s fight — family, friends, and fierce self-advocacy.
- Name:
- Janelle C.
- Age at Diagnosis:
- 38
- Diagnosis:
- Adrenal Cancer (Adrenocortical Carcinoma)
- Staging:
- Stage 4
- Symptoms:
- Excessive thirst and water intake
- Interrupted sleep due to waking to drink and urinate
- Suspicious weight gain despite working out
- Treatments:
- Surgeries: adrenalectomy, nephrectomy
- Oral chemotherapy
- Steroids
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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