Author: Chris Sanchez

Melissa’s Stage 4B Stomach Cancer Story

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date November 30, 2024
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November 30, 2024

Melissa’s Stage 4B Stomach Cancer Story

Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Melissa, a resident of Clarksville, TN, was diagnosed with stage 4b metastatic gastric adenocarcinoma, a form of stomach cancer, following a challenging diagnostic process that began in late 2021. After a mild case of COVID-19, she experienced persistent throat discomfort, but initial visits to specialists yielded no conclusive results. Doctors initially attributed her symptoms to acid reflux and anxiety. In September 2022, while vacationing in Mexico, Melissa experienced nausea and vomiting, but she dismissed it, believing it was a urinary tract infection.

Upon Melissa’s return home, her massage therapist noticed something unusual in her back, prompting her to seek further medical evaluation. A proactive primary care physician ordered an ultrasound, revealing gallstones, and Melissa underwent gallbladder surgery. Although she initially felt better, nausea returned, and an endoscopy revealed a paralyzed stomach and, ultimately, a mass near her esophagus. Biopsies confirmed that Melissa had invasive adenocarcinoma, a diagnosis that left her and her family in shock.

In December 2021, Melissa began treatment with FOLFOX chemotherapy and two trial immunotherapy drugs, zimberelimab and domvanalimab. Despite an initial prognosis that gave her less than a year to live, Melissa responded remarkably well to treatment. By April 2023, her scans showed no evidence of disease, an unexpected outcome given the aggressive nature of her cancer. She celebrated by ringing the cancer center’s bell, a significant milestone in her journey.

However, Melissa’s joy was short-lived. In early 2024, a small cancerous lymph node was detected, leading her to resume treatment with chemotherapy and Opdivo, a different immunotherapy. The side effects, including severe pain and weight gain, were intense, but she continued to fight. After several rounds of treatment, another scan showed no evidence of disease. Yet, in August 2024, her Pet scan revealed another recurrence, requiring further treatments. She likens her cancer battle to a game of “whack-a-mole.”

Despite the physical and emotional toll, Melissa remains resilient, supported by her medical team and faith. She credits her Christian doctors, who prayed with her before procedures, for their compassionate care. Now, Melissa continues treatment, grateful for her improved quality of life, and cherishing every day as a gift.

Name:
- Melissa W.
Diagnosis:
- Gastric adenocarcinoma (stomach cancer)
Staging:
- Stage 4b
Initial Symptoms:
- Feeling like something was in her throat
- Occasional nausea
- Acid reflux
- Occasional feeling of having boiling water in her stomach
- Soreness in the bottom of her ribcage
Treatment:
- Chemotherapy (FOLFOX)
- Immunotherapy (zimberelimab, domvanalimab, Opdivo)

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

Thank you for sharing your story, Melissa!

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Yiwei reacted calmly to the diagnosis, despite having being a healthy individual for over 20 years. His family, however, was shocked when they first learned of his cancer, particularly his daughter Summer, who recalls how the news interrupted a casual dinner outing. Summer, like her father, had initially thought he had contracted COVID-19, making the cancer diagnosis even more unexpected.

Yiwei underwent 6 rounds of chemotherapy followed by radiation, which he tolerated well, experiencing minimal side effects beyond hair loss. However, soon after completing his initial treatments in early 2023, his cancer relapsed, with tumors returning in his chest and appearing in his liver. This led to a second round of chemotherapy combined with CAR T-cell therapy. By August 2023, scans showed no evidence of cancer, and follow-up PET scans have continued to confirm his remission.

Summer highlights the long, complicated diagnosis process as a key reason for sharing their story on social media. Through her TikTok account, she raises awareness about the possible early signs of cancer, such as the persistent skin issues her father experienced, and the importance of advocating for one’s health. Her videos have connected with a broader community of cancer patients and survivors, helping others identify concerning symptoms and seek timely medical advice.

Yiwei further elaborates on CAR T-cell therapy, which uses the body’s own immune cells to fight cancer. He expresses admiration for this innovative treatment, noting its effectiveness in his case despite some potential side effects, including a temporary drop in his platelet count.

Both Yiwei and Summer emphasize the importance of mental strength during treatment. Yiwei advises others to stay calm and not to worry excessively, as stress can negatively impact recovery. Summer adds that loved ones can offer reassurance and practical help to support patients through their treatment. Together, they hope their story inspires others to stay vigilant about early symptoms and remain hopeful throughout their cancer journeys.

Name:
- Yiwei T.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 50
Diagnosis:
- non-Hodgkin lymphoma (Primary mediastinal large B-cell lymphoma [PMBCL])
Staging:
- Stage 3
Initial Symptoms:
- Intense itching and rashes
- Shortness of breath
- Extreme fatigue
- Elevated heart rate
- Lower than normal blood oxygen levels
Treatment:
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation
- CAR T-Cell Therapy

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

Thank you for sharing your story, Yiwei and Summer!

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Monica underwent chemotherapy and has been navigating treatment with resilience, even as she faced delays like that occurring due to her contracting COVID-19 before a crucial surgery. Chemotherapy reduced the size of her cancerous lymph nodes, and she is also on immunotherapy.

While the physical toll on Monica has been significant—causing her to lose hair and endure digestive issues—she remains pragmatic, and finds solace in maintaining an active lifestyle, walking her dog, and focusing on her recovery. She reflects on the emotional impact of her diagnosis, stating that she was not initially devastated. Instead, she quickly adjusted to the situation, finding humor in some of the challenging moments, such as learning to live with a temporary stoma. She acknowledges that the hardest part may come after treatment, living with the uncertainty of remission.

Monica also uses her experience to advocate for cancer awareness on TikTok, where she discusses her journey to inspire others. Her content has resonated with women, who reach out to express gratitude for her openness. Monica stresses the importance of colonoscopies and challenges the tendency of doctors to dismiss symptoms like hers as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), especially in young women.

Despite the difficulties, Monica chooses to maintain a positive outlook. She is determined to fight the disease and rejects the notion that cancer must define or consume her life. She believes cancer should be viewed as an accessory rather than a death sentence and emphasizes the importance of staying active, both mentally and physically. Monica’s story highlights the power of community, as her friends in Croatia have rallied around her during treatment, offering support and care when her family in Australia is far away.

Name:
- Monica A.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 31
Diagnosis:
- Colon cancer
Staging:
- Stage 4
Initial Symptoms:
- Recurrent pain in side
- Severely swollen stomach
Treatment:
- Surgery (removal of tumor and cancerous lymph nodes)
- Chemotherapy (Folfiri)
- Immunotherapy (bevacizumab)

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

Thank you for sharing your story, Monica!

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Casandra describes her emotional journey following the diagnosis as surreal. It hit her hardest when she informed her father, expressing her fears. Over the past month, she has struggled with fear and confusion, but has also found moments of peace, thanks to the support of friends, family, and the wider cancer community.

Regarding treatment, Casandra receives chemotherapy every 2 weeks, followed by a 48-hour home infusion via a pump. This treatment is taxing, with significant side effects such as nausea, fatigue, cold sensitivity, and muscle spasms. After noticing her hair thinning, she made the decision to shave her head, which brought her relief.

Mentally, Casandra acknowledges that previous therapy she underwent to improve her mental health has helped her cope with her cancer diagnosis. She emphasizes the importance of taking breaks from cancer and finding moments of joy with her family. She shares that her biggest support system has come from her family, particularly her husband and daughter, as well as from connecting with other cancer patients through social media.

Casandra offers advice to others, urging them to trust their bodies and find doctors they can talk to comfortably. She emphasizes the importance of early detection and sharing her story to help others avoid the same oversight. Despite the challenges that lie ahead of her, she remains hopeful, buoyed by her support system and her determination to fight for herself and her family.

Name:
- Casandra C.
Diagnosis:
- Colon cancer
Staging:
- Stage 4
Initial Symptoms:
- Rectal bleeding
- Extreme fatigue
- Severe loss in appetite
- Excessive pain in new areas
- Changes in bowel habits
Treatment:
- Chemotherapy (FOLFOX)

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

Thank you for sharing your story, Casandra!

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In 2021, Hope began experiencing symptoms that were ultimately diagnosed as adrenal cancer. This aggressive cancer led her to undergo a combination of surgery and chemotherapy. As of October 12, 2024, she has been cancer-free for nearly two years. Hope’s journey through these medical challenges has shaped her perspective on life and deepened her appreciation for each day with her family.

Motivated by her own experiences and recognizing the lack of research and funding for adrenal cancer, Hope launched a nonprofit organization called Adrenal Cure Collective (ACC) in April 2024. The nonprofit aims to raise funds for adrenal cancer research and to increase awareness about this rare condition. She has taken on a leadership role in organizing ACC’s initiatives, with the goal of driving more support for those affected by adrenal cancer.

Hope is currently planning the first major event for her nonprofit, called the ACC Warrior Weekend, which bring together the adrenal cancer community, fundraise for research, and foster a sense of solidarity among those affected by this rare disease. Her ultimate goal for the nonprofit is to fund more research into adrenal cancer, a disease that receives far less attention and research funding compared to other cancers.

Beyond her work with the nonprofit, Hope is deeply involved in her children’s lives. Despite the medical challenges she has faced, she remains dedicated to being a present and active mother to her 3 boys. Balancing motherhood with her health journey and nonprofit work, Hope’s resilience and passion for making a difference shine through in every aspect of her life.

The impact of Hope’s advocacy extends beyond her own story, as she seeks to raise awareness for those battling adrenal cancer and to build a community of support for patients and families affected by the disease. Through the Adrenal Cure Collective, she is determined to bring more attention and resources to the fight against adrenal cancer, ultimately working toward better outcomes for those diagnosed with this rare and often overlooked condition.

Name:
- Hope L.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 35
Diagnosis:
- Adrenal cancer
Staging:
- Stage 2
Initial Symptoms:
- High blood pressure
- Butterfly rash
- Joint pain and swelling
- Rapid heart rate
Treatment:
- Surgery (adrenalectomy)
- Chemotherapy (Mitotane)

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

Thank you for sharing your story, Hope!

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Nicole began chemotherapy with carboplatin and paclitaxel, undergoing 7 treatments every 3 weeks. Having experienced chemotherapy for breast cancer in 2009, she noted advancements in treatment, such as the cold cap, which helped her keep her hair—a small but meaningful comfort during her second cancer battle.

Nicole’s chemotherapy sessions were successful in reducing her CA125 levels from an alarming 3,300 to much lower numbers after each treatment. After 4 sessions, scans showed that the cancer near her clavicles had disappeared, clearing her for surgery. In April 2023, she prepared to undergo a total hysterectomy. During the operation, her oncologist found that her cancer had spread to multiple organs, including her liver, diaphragm, and intestines, requiring a much more extensive surgery than anticipated. Despite the grueling recovery, including severe pain and breathing difficulties, Nicole pushed through.

Following surgery, Nicole completed her remaining chemotherapy sessions and began treatment with medications like Lynparza to prevent cancer recurrence. Despite a brief hospitalization due to low platelet levels, she has been cancer-free since July 2023.

Throughout her journey, Nicole reflects on the emotional toll the diagnosis took on her, recalling how she leaned on her husband for support but often found herself crying in private. She acknowledges the strength she found in herself and her gratitude for being able to be there for her family. In July, she and her husband finally shared her cancer journey with their children. Now, they actively participate in awareness activities, supporting both breast and ovarian cancer causes.

Nicole advises others to trust their instincts and not let doctors dismiss their concerns, emphasizing the importance of self-advocacy in her survival.

Name:
- Nicole L.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 40
Diagnosis:
- Ovarian cancer
Staging:
- Stage 4
Initial Symptoms:
- Extreme abdominal pain
- Nausea when in a moving vehicle
- Frequent urge to urinate (often unsuccessful)
- Chest pain
Treatment:
- Chemotherapy (carboplatin and paclitaxel)
- Surgery (removal of cancer from liver, diaphragm, bladder, small intestine; total hysterectomy)
- Cold cap
- PARP inhibitor (Lynparza)

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

Thank you for sharing your story, Nicole!

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Audrey, a 26-year-old speech-language pathologist from Fort Worth, TX, was diagnosed with thyroid cancer (papillary thyroid carcinoma with tall cell variant features) in October 2023.

Audrey’s cancer journey began after a series of health complications in late 2022. Initially, she suffered from respiratory issues and pneumonia, followed by persistent symptoms such as night sweats, fatigue, and severe chest pain, which led to multiple visits to the ER and various specialists.

Despite early dismissals by some doctors, Audrey’s persistence paid off when a CT scan revealed a pulmonary embolism. This marked the start of a challenging summer, during which she was diagnosed with a blood clot, pericarditis, and tricuspid valve insufficiency or tricuspid valve regurgitation. However, Audrey felt there was more going on and sought further testing. In August, swollen lymph nodes in her neck prompted her to request a full-body PET scan, which revealed a tumor on her thyroid.

With a family history of thyroid cancer, including her mother, Audrey underwent a biopsy in October 2023, confirming her cancer diagnosis. She sought treatment at the Mayo Clinic, where further tests revealed lymph node involvement but no vascular invasion. Audrey underwent surgery in November 2023, which included a right central neck dissection to remove the tumor and affected lymph nodes. Post-surgery, she faced complications with calcium regulation, leading to ongoing supplementation.

Despite these challenges, Audrey’s tumor markers have decreased, and she was told she was in remission in February 2024. Throughout her journey, Audrey credits her faith, family, and supportive friends for helping her navigate the uncertainty. She emphasizes the importance of advocating for oneself in healthcare and maintaining hope, even in difficult times.

Name:
- Audrey B.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 25
Diagnosis:
- Thyroid cancer (papillary thyroid carcinoma with tall cell variant features)
Staging:
- Stage 2
Initial Symptoms:
- Respiratory issues
- Pneumonia
- Night sweats
- Severe fatigue
- Sharp pain in lower left lung area
- Shortness of breath
Treatment:
- Surgery (Surgery- total thyroidectomy, parathyroid transplant, central neck dissection)

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

Thank you for sharing your story, Audrey!

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Jazz, a resident of Texas, shares his journey of being diagnosed with stage 3, borderline stage 4 colorectal cancer. His story began during a vacation in Hawaii when he experienced frequent bowel movements, discomfort, and rectal bleeding. Initially attributing his symptoms to hemorrhoids, Jazz delayed seeking medical attention until his girlfriend noticed his weight loss and urged him to see a doctor.

After a visit to the ER, Jazz’s hemoglobin count was dangerously low, leading to the discovery of a tumor causing internal bleeding. He underwent a colostomy surgery and learned that the tumor was cancerous. Despite the overwhelming emotions, Jazz remained positive, focusing on the support of his girlfriend and healthcare team. Over time, he also encountered other cancer patients, finding strength in their resilience and the uplifting environment in the chemo room.

Jazz describes his experience with chemotherapy, noting that although it was exhausting, he avoided severe side effects like hair loss or vomiting. He also reflects on the emotional toll of having a colostomy bag, which initially caused feelings of depression, but he learned to adapt. During his treatment, another tumor was discovered in his stomach, but doctors were able to remove it.

As part of his ongoing treatment, Jazz underwent chemotherapy, radiation, and will eventually have surgery to remove the remaining tumor. Despite the challenges, Jazz remains optimistic about his future, crediting his girlfriend’s unwavering support and the care of his doctors. He emphasizes the importance of never giving up, trusting in medical professionals, and finding strength in loved ones.

Jazz advises others to listen to their bodies, seek support, and never lose hope, believing that with the right mindset and help, it’s possible to overcome even the toughest battles.

Name:
- Jazz P.
Diagnosis:
- Colorectal cancer
Staging:
- Stage 3/4
Initial Symptoms:
- Constant urge to defecate
- Slight anal bleeding
- Weight loss
Treatment:
- Surgery (removal of tumor)
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation

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

Thank you for sharing your story, Jazz!

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Brittany’s cancer journey started unexpectedly with a choking incident at work, which led her to seek medical advice despite initially being reassured by her doctors. Brittany recalled experiencing neck and shoulder pain, difficulty swallowing, and a history of H. pylori infection, a risk factor for stomach cancer. She underwent a series of tests, including an upper endoscopy, after which her doctors found a 1-cm mass in her stomach which was eventually diagnosed as gastric adenocarcinoma with signet ring cells.

Upon learning about her diagnosis, Brittany sought expert opinions, researching and joining support groups, particularly No Stomach for Cancer and Stomach Cancer Sisters, which provided her with valuable information. She consulted several surgical oncologists before deciding to undergo treatment at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City with Dr. Sam Yoon, a specialist in early-stage stomach cancer. Dr. Yoon suggested a curative surgery without chemotherapy, to Brittany’s relief.

In Brittany’s surgery, 60% of her stomach was removed, along with 25 lymph nodes. Fortunately, the lymph nodes were cancer-free, and she did not require chemotherapy. However, the physical and mental toll of the diagnosis and recovery was significant. She lost weight due to fear of eating and experienced post-surgery challenges, such as dumping syndrome, which affects her digestion and energy levels. Learning to manage her diet became crucial, and she adapted to eating smaller, protein-rich meals frequently throughout the day.

The emotional impact of cancer has lingered, and Brittany sought therapy, mindfulness practices, and spiritual healing to cope with anxiety and the fear of recurrence. She emphasizes the importance of gratitude and a new perspective on life, realizing how precious it is after facing such a life-altering event. Though she still deals with physical challenges and occasional difficult days, Brittany is thankful for her recovery and strives to live with a greater appreciation for every moment.

Name:
- Brittany D.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 35
Diagnosis:
- Stomach cancer (gastric adenocarcinoma with signet ring cells)
Staging:
- Stage T1b
Initial Symptoms:
- Choking suddenly while eating and attempting to speak
- Neck and right shoulder pain
- Neck tightness
- Trouble swallowing certain food items
Treatment:
- Surgery (subtotal gastrectomy, D1 lymphadenectomy, gastric bypass)

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

Thank you for sharing your story, Brittany!

Inspired by Brittany's story?

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October 26, 2024

Anna’s Triple Positive Breast Cancer Story

Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Anna, a Brooklyn-based photographer originally from Prague, Czech Republic, shares her personal journey through triple positive breast cancer. On her 37th birthday, Anna discovered a lump in her breast, which led to a breast cancer diagnosis. At the time, her son was 2 and a half years old, and she and her husband, Jordan, were contemplating having a second child. Her experience became a photo-documentation project, capturing her emotional and physical journey.

After discovering the lump, Anna immediately sought medical advice. Despite her gynecologist dismissing the need for immediate concern, Anna pushed for further tests. She learned that 40% of women have dense breast tissue, making mammograms less effective. An ultrasound revealed the tumor, and a biopsy confirmed the diagnosis: triple positive breast cancer. The news was delivered over the phone while Anna was at work, a moment that profoundly affected her. She recounts how Jordan’s mother, who had also survived breast cancer, helped them navigate the situation.

Anna underwent a lumpectomy, followed by chemotherapy and radiation. She describes the physical and emotional toll of the treatments, including the onset of menopause at 37 due to hormone therapy and the devastating impact on her fertility. The prospect of not having a second child was deeply painful for Anna, who felt grief and resentment over the situation. While people often told her to be grateful for her existing child, Anna explains that it’s possible to experience both immense love for one child while grieving the loss of the possibility of another.

Mentally, the experience was overwhelming. After her surgery and treatments, Anna found herself struggling with depression and even suicidal thoughts. She vividly remembers an intense moment, and how this experience convinced her to seek therapy and antidepressants. Jordan also played a crucial role in helping her recognize her mental health struggles, encouraging her to seek help.

Anna found solace in photography, using her camera to document her cancer journey. This project, initially personal, helped her process the trauma and provided a way to visually articulate her experience. She and Jordan collaborated on this project, which eventually turned into a book. The process of creating the book was both therapeutic and challenging, as it forced Anna to confront painful memories. However, the feedback from others who connected with her story through the photographs was incredibly healing.

Anna’s story also highlights the importance of survivorship. She discusses how society often overlooks the ongoing struggles of cancer survivors, assuming that once physical recovery is evident, the person is fully healed. For Anna, the emotional and psychological healing continues long after the treatments have ended, and her photography serves as a powerful tool in that journey.

Name:
- Anna R.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 37
Diagnosis:
- Triple positive breast cancer
Grade:
- Grade 3
Initial Symptom:
- Lump in breast
Treatment:
- Surgery (lumpectomy)
- Hormone therapy (Tamoxifen)
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation