How Stage 4B Appendix Cancer Transformed Erica’s Life
Erica’s story is one of resilience, self-discovery, and perspective shifts. When she was diagnosed with stage 4B appendix cancer in 2021, her life took a turn she never anticipated. Having moved to a different state during the peak of COVID-19 as a new single mom, she channeled her energy into rigorous workouts, juggling a new job she loved, and raising her two kids. Despite leading what appeared to be a healthy and active lifestyle, subtle signs, like fatigue, sharp pain in her side, and unusual early fullness while eating, were easy to dismiss.
Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Chris Sanchez
Erica’s stage 4B appendix cancer diagnosis came unexpectedly, during what was supposed to be a routine hysterectomy. Waking up from anesthesia to hear the stunning statement, “We think you have cancer,” was surreal, a moment etched in her memory. Despite being asymptomatic for the most part, Erica’s intuition had nudged her toward surgery — an inner voice that, in hindsight, was a lifesaver.
Navigating stage 4B appendix cancer hasn’t been easy. Erica underwent extensive treatments, including various surgeries, hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC), which involved administering chemotherapy directly into the abdominal cavity, and additional grueling rounds of chemotherapy. The side effects were intense; the fatigue was unlike anything she’d ever known — not just physical exhaustion but a deep, pervasive weariness. Yet, she persisted, returning to work after treatments, determined to reclaim normalcy. However, the cancer’s return was a harsh reminder that survivorship is complex.
Mental health has been a cornerstone of Erica’s experience. She’s transparent about the emotional toll: grappling with the fear of limited time, making tough decisions about her children’s future, and balancing hope with reality. Despite moments of feeling robbed of her spirit, she embraces the blessings cancer has brought, namely, the courage to say yes to new experiences, deeper self-reflection, and meaningful connections with loved ones.
Erica’s message is powerful: choices exist, even when it feels like they don’t. Changing her perspective has been transformative, finding joy in small victories and peace in acceptance. She encourages others to live fully, embrace vulnerability, and rest when needed. Her story isn’t just about battling stage 4B appendix cancer; it’s about living authentically, finding strength in unexpected places, and advocating for mental health awareness alongside rare cancer understanding.
Watch Erica’s video and learn more about:
- How her intuition uncovered a rare cancer diagnosis.
- How subtle and easily brushed-off signs led to a life-changing discovery.
- The unexpected blessings Erica found through stage 4B appendix cancer.
- What survivorship really looks like beyond the diagnosis.
- Choosing joy: Erica’s journey of resilience and rare cancer awareness.
- Name:
- Erica R.
- Age at Diagnosis:
- 48
- Diagnosis:
- Appendix Cancer
- Staging:
- Stage 4B
- Symptoms:
- Bloating
- Sharp pain in the side
- Fatigue
- Vomiting after one alcoholic drink
- Early satiety (feeling full)
- Treatments:
- Surgeries: cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC)
- Chemotherapy
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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More Appendix Cancer Stories
Lindsay B., LAMN Appendix Cancer
Symptom: Increasing urge to urinate
Treatments: Cytoreductive surgery (CRS), Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC)
Faye L., Pseudomyxoma Peritonei (Rare Appendix Cancer)
Symptoms: Severe bloating, bad stomachache, elevated CA 125 and tumor markers
Treatments: Chemotherapy, surgery
Alli M., Appendix Cancer, Stage 4
Symptom: Severe abdominal pain
Treatments: Surgeries (right hemisphere colectomy, appendectomy, HIPEC), chemotherapy
Ariel M., Appendix Cancer, Stage 4, High-Grade
Symptom: Sharp pain with gas & bowel movements
Treatments: Surgery (radical hysterectomy), chemotherapy, PIPAC clinical trial (pressurized intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy)
Hannah R., Appendix Cancer, Stage 4
Symptoms: Bloating, fullness, UTIs, blood in urine, pain during intercourse, high blood pressure, spotting
Treatments: Surgery (appendectomy, cytoreductive surgery), chemotherapy, radiation (to treat recurrence)