Author: Chris Sanchez

How Stage 4 Appendix Cancer Transformed Erica’s Life

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date May 1, 2025
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May 1, 2025

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.

Thank you for sharing your story, Erica!

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Gleason 9, Stage 4 Prostate Cancer: John’s Path to Living Well

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date May 1, 2025
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May 1, 2025

Diagnosed with Gleason 9, Stage 4 Prostate Cancer: John’s Blueprint for Living Well

John’s life took an unexpected turn in 2021 when he was diagnosed with Gleason score 9, stage 4 prostate cancer (stage 4A). His experience has been anything but easy, yet his story is packed with lessons on resilience, hope, and the power of proactive health management.

Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

John’s signs that something was amiss were nocturia (frequent nighttime urination) and a weak stream of urine. Despite visiting his doctor and undergoing a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test, his results were misleading due to a medication called finasteride, commonly used for hair loss. Unfortunately, neither he nor his regular doctor realized that the PSA levels should have been doubled for accurate interpretation. This oversight delayed his diagnosis and, as they realized later, the cancer spread beyond his prostate in the interim.

After a biopsy of his prostate, John received the challenging diagnosis of Gleason score 9, stage 4A prostate cancer along with the revelation of positive margins (cancer left even after surgery), lymph node involvement, and other aggressive cancer indicators. But instead of dwelling on “Why me?”, he shifted his mindset to, “What can I do about it?” This pivot led him to embrace what he calls TIDES: treatment, inspiration, diet, exercise, and sleep, as his personal blueprint to slow down the progression of prostate cancer.

John underwent surgery, hormone therapy (androgen deprivation therapy or ADT), and radiation. These treatments came with intense side effects — hot flashes, joint issues, urinary incontinence, and even the onset of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a rare disease affecting the nerves linking the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. Yet, he managed to find new meaning in life despite these challenges. His secret? Focusing on what he could control.

John took a comprehensive approach to navigating his life after diagnosis. Optimizing his diet became a priority. He moved towards plant-based foods, inspired by studies showing that healthier lifestyles reduce prostate cancer mortality risk significantly. Exercise was another key element, helping him manage weight changes due to decreased metabolism from ADT. John also prioritized sleep and mental health, practicing daily gratitude, and finding joy in life’s simplest moments.

Now in remission, John is more determined than ever. His message to others facing stage 4 prostate cancer is simple, yet powerful: don’t let the fear of side effects stop you from seeking treatment. Life after a diagnosis isn’t over; it’s just different and can still be fulfilling.

Watch John’s video to find out about:

How he found hope after his stage 4 prostate cancer diagnosis.
The five lifestyle changes John swears by to manage his health.
Why he says life is still great after a tough cancer experience.
The overlooked PSA test factor that delayed John’s diagnosis.
His secret weapon against cancer blues.

Name:
- John B.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 58
Diagnosis:
- Prostate Cancer
Staging:
- Stage 4A
Gleason Score:
- Gleason 9
Symptoms:
- Nocturia (frequent urination at night)
- Weak stream of urine
Treatments:
- Surgery: prostatectomy
- Hormone therapy: androgen deprivation therapy (ADT)
- Radiation

This interview has been edited for clarity. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider to make treatment decisions.

Thank you for sharing your story, John!

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Janelle’s Stage 4 Adrenal Cancer Story of Connection

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date April 30, 2025
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April 30, 2025

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.

Thank you for sharing your story, Janelle!

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Life After Remission: Laura’s Stage 4 Hodgkin Lymphoma Story

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date April 29, 2025
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April 29, 2025

Life After Remission: Laura’s Stage 4 Hodgkin Lymphoma Story

When Laura first walked into her doctor’s office in 2017, she was just looking for relief from a stubborn cough. A quick prescription was all she expected. Instead, she was swept into a whirlwind of tests, appointments, and life-altering news. That cough turned out to be a sign of something far more serious: stage 4 Hodgkin lymphoma.

Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

At 40, Laura considered herself the epitome of health — a vegetarian, a yoga enthusiast, and someone who rarely visited the doctor. Hearing the word “cancer” was surreal, and the shock only deepened when she discovered it had spread to both her lungs. Initially misdiagnosed as lung cancer, the prospect of terminal illness terrified Laura. But after a lung biopsy and a mediastinoscopy, the doctors confirmed it was stage 4 Hodgkin lymphoma — which is treatable and potentially curable, even in its advanced stage.

Navigating the medical world was like learning a new language. From meeting oncologists to enduring countless tests, Laura found herself juggling not just the disease but also the bureaucratic hurdles of insurance and the financial challenges of cancer. Imagine battling a $100,000 medical bill while undergoing cancer treatment like Laura did. Eventually, she won her insurance appeals, but these challenges highlighted the critical need for self-advocacy.

Treatment for stage 4 Hodgkin lymphoma was no picnic. Laura endured six months of chemotherapy followed by a month of radiation. She lost her hair — not just on her head but everywhere, a detail that surprised her. Fortunately, she wasn’t plagued by the nausea often depicted in media, likely thanks to effective anti-nausea meds. However, mouth sores and extreme fatigue became familiar companions.

Post-treatment life brought its own set of emotional and physical adjustments. While declared in remission in 2018, Laura grappled with the invisible scars left by stage 4 Hodgkin lymphoma. She described the strange void after her regular oncologist visits ended, likening it to new parents leaving the hospital with their first child — uncertain, overwhelmed, and without a manual.

Despite lingering side effects like neuropathy and the emotional weight of past battles, Laura’s outlook remains empowering. She’s passionate about survivorship and emphasizes that healing isn’t just physical. It’s about finding support, whether through online communities or fellow survivors. Laura’s advice? You’re not alone, and you’re definitely not your disease.

Watch Laura’s video to find out more about:

What started as a cough that later led to life-changing news.
Fighting a $100,000 medical bill while undergoing treatment.
Why post-cancer life isn’t ‘back to normal’ — she shares her unexpected challenges.
What Laura wishes she had known before chemo, and what she wants every patient to know.

Name:
- Laura P.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 40
Diagnosis:
- Hodgkin Lymphoma
Staging:
- Stage 4
Symptom:
- Nagging cough
Treatments:
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation

This interview has been edited for clarity. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider to make treatment decisions.

Thank you for sharing your story, Laura!

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Ryan’s Clinical Trial Experience Facing Stage 4 Tongue Cancer

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date April 28, 2025
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April 28, 2025

Stage 4 Tongue Cancer and the Power of Speaking Up: Ryan’s Clinical Trial Journey

Ryan’s story is a powerful testament to resilience, support, and the complexities of living with stage 4 tongue cancer. He’s a husband and father to two boys, and balances family life with the demanding realities of his diagnosis, treatments, and emotional shifts.

Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Ryan’s cancer story began subtly, with a deceptively small white spot on his tongue, which was shrugged off during numerous dental visits. Life was busy, and it wasn’t until the spot wouldn’t heal that he sought an oral surgeon’s opinion. A biopsy confirmed his fears: stage 4 tongue cancer (squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck). From there, his life transformed rapidly with surgeries, including a partial glossectomy (the removal of part of his tongue), neck dissection (the removal of cancerous lymph nodes in his neck), and reconstruction of his tongue. These procedures were followed by extensive rounds of radiation, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and participation in clinical trials.

Ryan’s clinical trial experience at MD Anderson has been both hopeful and challenging. He debunks the myth about placebos in cancer trials, emphasizing that all participants receive the standard of care, with trials testing potentially more effective therapies. His trial opened new avenues in his treatment plan. This part of his experience highlights the critical role of clinical trials in advancing cancer treatment, offering patients like Ryan additional options beyond conventional methods.

Day-to-day life with stage 4 tongue cancer is layered with physical and emotional hurdles. Ryan travels weekly for his treatments, navigating the logistical and financial strains with the support of his family. The emotional weight is substantial — not just for him, but also for his wife and kids. He describes the emotional aftermath akin to grief, with friends and family often reacting as if he’s already gone, which adds to the complexity of living with an ongoing illness.

Ryan’s narrative sheds light on the unseen burdens carried by family and friends. His wife bears the brunt of emotional stress, managing her fears and the daily realities of their children’s lives. Ryan’s determination to stay engaged in his children’s lives drives him, even as he tackles the harsh side effects of treatment.

Ryan’s advice to others facing similar battles? Own your treatment. Speak up, advocate for yourself, and ensure your voice is heard in your care decisions. This proactive approach has been crucial in Ryan’s experience, helping ensure that he receives attentive and appropriate care.

Watch Ryan’s video to find out about:

How a small white spot led to his stage 4 tongue cancer diagnosis.
The emotional toll of cancer — not only on patients but also on their families.
Ryan’s firsthand experience debunking myths about clinical trials.
Weekly flights, family strains, and fighting for normalcy with cancer.
Why Ryan believes hope isn’t enough — and about what really matters.

Name:
- Ryan A.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 39
Diagnosis:
- Tongue Cancer (Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck)
Staging:
- Stage 4
Symptom:
- Lesion on the side of the tongue
Treatments:
- Surgeries: partial glossectomy, neck dissection, tongue reconstruction
- Chemotherapy
- Immunotherapy
- Radiation

This interview has been edited for clarity. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider to make treatment decisions.

Thank you for sharing your story, Ryan!

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Life Despite Stage 4 Colon Cancer: Albita’s Honest, Hopeful Story

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date April 25, 2025
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April 25, 2025

Living Fully with Stage 4 Colon Cancer: Albita’s Honest, Hopeful Story

When vibrant Albita noticed symptoms like stomach pain and blood in her stool back in 2019, she brushed them off, attributing them to stress, diet, and an active lifestyle. It wasn’t until 2024, at the age of 32, that she received the life-altering diagnosis: stage 4 colon cancer.

Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Albita’s path to diagnosis was filled with delays due to fear, financial concerns, and misattribution of symptoms to conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). She experienced persistent weight gain in her midsection, fatigue, and worsening digestive issues. Despite hesitation, she eventually scheduled a colonoscopy, which revealed a tumor. Further scans showed metastases in her liver, confirming stage 4 colon cancer.

Albita’s reaction was a mix of shock and an odd sense of relief. Finally, there was a name for the mysterious health issues she had been facing. As a pharmacy technician, she understood medical jargon but found the reality of cancer overwhelming. Yet, her oncologist offered hope, emphasizing that stage 4 isn’t hopeless. Treatments are available, and many people continue to live full lives.

Albita underwent multiple treatments, including several rounds of chemotherapy, liver resections, and a colon resection with a hysterectomy. That’s when Stella entered her life — her ileostomy, which she’s learned to embrace. Living with an ileostomy has been an adjustment, reshaping her relationship with food, body image, and self-care. She now pays attention to her hydration, nutrient intake, and manages the daily logistics of having a stoma.

Despite the physical toll and side effects of her treatments — fatigue, brain fog, hair loss, and skin issues — Albita’s mindset remains her strongest asset. She acknowledges grief for the life she had before but finds strength in her growth. “I feel stronger as a human being,” she shares, highlighting how facing stage 4 colon cancer has revealed an inner resilience she never knew she had.

Albita’s message to others is clear: listen to your body. Don’t dismiss symptoms like persistent stomach pain, unusual weight changes, or blood in your stool. Early detection can make a significant difference. She also advocates for mental health support, therapy, and maintaining a positive mental attitude, which helps her navigate the emotional waves of living with cancer.

Watch Albita’s video to find out more about:

How important it is to listen to our bodies.
How a diagnosis of stage 4 colon cancer changed everything — and nothing — for her.
Albita’s powerful take on living with an ileostomy.
Why she named her stoma Stella, and other inspiring insights.
The symptoms Albita initially ignored that you shouldn’t.

Name:
- Albita G.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 32
Diagnosis:
- Colon Cancer
Staging:
- Stage 4
Symptoms:
- Blood in stool
- Pain during defecation
- Constant constipation
- Steady weight gain in the midsection despite exercising
Treatments:
- Surgery: colectomy, hepatectomy, hysterectomy
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation

This interview has been edited for clarity. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider to make treatment decisions.

Thank you for sharing your story, Albita!

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Yolanda’s Multiple Myeloma Story

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date April 24, 2025
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April 24, 2025

Why Listening to Your Body Matters: Yolanda’s Multiple Myeloma Story

Yolanda has been navigating life with multiple myeloma since 2008. Before her diagnosis, she was immersed in the fast-paced fashion industry. Back then, she began noticing some odd symptoms, like a constant craving for starchy foods and her knee joints clicking when she moved. Cancer wasn’t even on her radar.

Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

It wasn’t until routine bloodwork revealed unusually high protein levels that Yolanda consulted a hematologist. This eventually led her to the Mayo Clinic where she received a diagnosis of smoldering myeloma, a stage that comes before active multiple myeloma. This was a pivotal moment, as it highlighted just how crucial it is to have a specialist who truly understands the disease. Thanks to an oncologist focusing on multiple myeloma, Yolanda’s knowledge about her condition grew significantly.

Yolanda then entered what’s called a “watch and wait” period. While it’s typically a year-long phase, for her, it stretched to five years before her myeloma became active and needed treatment. This phase brought its share of emotional ups and downs, along with the challenge of grasping all the medical details.

When it was time for treatment, Yolanda started with radiation and later moved on to chemotherapy and targeted therapy. The road wasn’t easy. Managing medication side effects was tough, but she eventually reached remission. Along the way, she became a strong advocate for herself, learning the importance of open communication with her doctors. She also discovered how beneficial regular exercise and staying active are in managing multiple myeloma.

Yolanda’s advice to others? Take a deep breath, stay engaged in your healthcare decisions, and focus on living well. She believes in speaking up during doctor’s appointments and stresses the value of having a supportive, knowledgeable medical team.

For Yolanda, multiple myeloma doesn’t define her life; it’s just one part of her story, and she’s determined to live it fully. Watch her video to learn more from her about:

The unexpected symptoms that led her to her multiple myeloma diagnosis.
How Yolanda’s stressful career masked signs of a serious condition.
Why having the right doctor made all the difference.
How Yolanda turned exercise into a powerful tool for managing her health.
Self-advocacy from someone who’s been through the ups and downs of multiple myeloma.

Name:
- Yolanda B.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 38
Diagnosis:
- Multiple Myeloma
Symptoms:
- Anemia
- Unusual craving for starchy food
- ‘Clicking’ sound produced by knees under certain circumstances (such as when walking up stairs)
Treatments:
- Radiation
- Chemotherapy
- Targeted therapy

This interview has been edited for clarity. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider to make treatment decisions.

Thank you for sharing your story, Yolanda!

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Lauren’s T-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (T-ALL) Treatment Story

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date April 23, 2025
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April 23, 2025

How Lauren Found Clarity Beyond T-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (T-ALL) and Treatment Challenge

Lauren, who hails from Ohio, was diagnosed with T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) in May 2022, a twist she never saw coming. What started as a typical cold spiraled into severe symptoms, including persistent cough, chest pain, and fever, which led to multiple doctor visits and misdiagnoses. Eventually, a chest X-ray and CT scan revealed an enormous mass near her heart, which rocked Lauren’s world. Her cancer diagnosis came swiftly, delivered bluntly by an oncologist who had little bedside manner.

Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Adjusting to life with cancer was overwhelming. Lauren faced intensive treatments, including lumbar punctures, rounds of brain radiation, and weekly chemotherapy. The treatments caused dramatic physical changes, including hair loss, neuropathy, and severe nausea, which challenged her daily comfort. Yet, amidst the chaos, Lauren found clarity. She decided to stop drinking alcohol, embraced a more balanced approach to health, and left a business venture that no longer aligned with her values.

Mental health played a significant role in Lauren’s recovery from T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. She sought help from a palliative medicine doctor, not just for physical symptoms but for emotional support, too. Accepting this help was transformative, providing better management of her anxiety, depression, and physical side effects.

Lauren’s message is powerful: healing isn’t linear, and facing tough days is okay. She encourages others to focus on one day at a time, embrace the good moments, and reach out for support when needed. Her story underscores the importance of advocating for oneself, mentally and physically, during and after cancer treatment.

Watch Lauren’s video to discover:

How a common cold led to a life-changing T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia diagnosis.
Why Lauren says cancer became an unexpected blessing.
The role of mental health and palliative care in cancer recovery.
How leaving a business she co-owned helped Lauren find clarity during treatment.
How Lauren coped with T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia, one day at a time.

Name:
- Lauren M.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 33
Diagnosis:
- T-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (T-ALL)
Symptoms:
- High fever
- Trouble breathing while lying flat
- Bad cough
- Headaches
Treatments:
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation
- Lumbar puncture

This interview has been edited for clarity. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider to make treatment decisions.

Thank you for sharing your story, Lauren!

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Emily’s Incurable Stage 4 Stomach Cancer

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date April 21, 2025
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April 21, 2025

Controlling What She Can: Emily Navigates Incurable Stage 4 Stomach Cancer

Emily, a former Olympic athlete, was diagnosed with stage 4 stomach cancer (gastric adenocarcinoma) in July 2024. Her health concerns began shortly after giving birth to her son in November 2023. Initially, she experienced what seemed like postpartum-related stomach aches, which progressed to early fullness, unexplained weight loss, and vomiting without nausea. Despite several medical consultations and tests — including endoscopies and biopsies that initially came back negative — Emily trusted her instincts when something didn’t sit right.

Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Determined to find answers, Emily sought a second opinion that finally led to the correct diagnosis of stage 4 stomach cancer. While the news was devastating, her response was both inspiring and empowering. She shifted her focus to what she could control — her mindset, her health, and the time she spends with her family. Despite being told her cancer was incurable, Emily holds onto hope, continually reinforcing positivity through daily affirmations and self-belief.

Exercise remains Emily’s anchor. Drawing from her athletic background, she incorporates physical activity into her routine — not to train for competitions, but to maintain her strength during treatments. Running, skiing, lifting weights, and even simple walks help her feel like herself. This connection to her physical well-being supports her mental health, creating a cycle of resilience and positivity.

Emily also channels her energy into meaningful projects for her family. She writes heartfelt letters for her son and compiles a cookbook for her husband, ensuring her presence remains strong in their lives. She embraces integrative approaches to health, combining traditional treatments like chemotherapy and immunotherapy with lifestyle habits that nurture her body and spirit.

While navigating the emotional weight of her stage 4 stomach cancer diagnosis, Emily’s perspective is profoundly moving. She acknowledges the fear but refuses to let it define her. She often reminds herself, “I’m a sample of one,” choosing to see statistics as impersonal numbers that don’t capture individual possibilities. Emily’s story isn’t just about living with stage 4 stomach cancer — it’s about living fully, with intention and love.

Watch Emily’s video and find out about:

How her competitive mindset fuels her life with stage 4 stomach cancer.
The symptom Emily thought was postpartum-related, but ended up changing her life.
How her intuition led to a diagnosis that doctors initially missed.
From chemotherapy to cookbooks: Emily’s heartfelt way of leaving a legacy.
Why Emily believes statistics don’t define her story and how that belief empowers her.

Name:
- Emily D.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 35
Diagnosis:
- Stomach Cancer (Gastric Adenocarcinoma)
Staging:
- Stage 4
Symptoms:
- Persistent postpartum stomachache
- Early satiety
- Difficulty swallowing
- Vomiting
Treatments:
- Chemotherapy
- Immunotherapy

This interview has been edited for clarity. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider to make treatment decisions.

Thank you for sharing your story, Emily!

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Candace’s Life Beyond Stage 3 Cervical Cancer

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date April 19, 2025
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April 19, 2025

Finding New Ways to Start a Family: Candace’s Life Beyond Stage 3C Cervical Cancer

Candace’s story is one of resilience, reflection, and redefining what family means. Diagnosed with stage 3 cervical cancer at just 25, while serving in the Air Force and navigating fertility treatments, her life took an unexpected turn. She had been managing polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) since she was 16, so symptoms like heavy bleeding and irregular periods were easy to dismiss. It wasn’t until an intrauterine insemination (IUI) procedure in 2022 that doctors noticed something amiss — her cervix appeared irritated and friable (overly sensitive and prone to irritation & bleeding). A biopsy post-dilation and curettage (D&C) confirmed the diagnosis.

Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Hearing the words, “You have cervical cancer,” was surreal for Candace. Still groggy from anesthesia, she laughed when the doctor said these words to her — an unexpected response fueled by shock and disbelief. But underneath that laughter was a whirlwind of emotions. The rapid progression from diagnosis to a radical hysterectomy left little time to process. Losing her fertility at such a young age was a profound grief, not just for the biological children she’d dreamed of but also for the part of her identity tied to motherhood.

Candace’s treatment journey for stage 3 cervical cancer was intense: multiple surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation (brachytherapy), and eventually immunotherapy. She went from balancing military duties post-chemo to confronting the harsh side effects that compounded with time, including nausea, fatigue, and hair loss.

Despite the physical toll of her stage 3c cervical cancer, Candace’s emotional and mental landscape was equally challenging. Cancer became an uninvited identity marker. Conversations often revolved around her illness rather than her passions or family. Determined to reclaim her narrative, she and her husband intentionally spoke openly about cancer, refusing to let it be the unspoken “C-word” in their lives.

Through all this, Candace’s hope remained anchored in her desire to have a family. Thanks to fertility preservation, she and her husband have two embryos frozen, with dreams of using a surrogate in the future. She also emphasizes the importance of fostering and adoption, showcasing how family can be beautifully diverse.

Candace’s support system, particularly within the Air Force, played a pivotal role. From understanding leadership to friends who became family, she felt embraced every step of the way. She advocates fiercely for seeking help, whether through therapy, friends, or acknowledging when it’s okay not to be okay.

Candace’s story isn’t defined by stage 3 cervical cancer. It’s shaped by courage, community, and the unwavering belief that life, even when altered, can still be meaningful and full. Watch her video to learn:

Why she insists that cancer doesn’t define her story.
Candace’s candid take on losing fertility at 25 but holding onto hopes of motherhood.
The surprising way Candace reacted upon hearing, “You have cancer.”
How the Air Force became Candace’s unexpected support system.

Name:
- Candace C.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 25
Diagnosis:
- Small Cell Cervical Cancer
Staging:
- Stage 3C
Symptoms:
- Heavy uterine bleeding
- Irregular menstruation
- Cervix seemed irritated and friable
Treatments:
- Surgery: radical hysterectomy
- Radiotherapy: brachytherapy
- Chemotherapy
- Immunotherapy

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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