Author: Chris Sanchez

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 and length. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider to make informed treatment decisions.

The views and opinions expressed in this interview do not necessarily reflect those of The Patient Story.

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 and length. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider to make informed treatment decisions.

The views and opinions expressed in this interview do not necessarily reflect those of The Patient Story.

Thank you for sharing your story, Ryan!

Inspired by Ryan's story?

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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:
- Surgeries: colectomy, hepatectomy, hysterectomy
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation

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

The views and opinions expressed in this interview do not necessarily reflect those of The Patient Story.

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 and length. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider to make informed treatment decisions.

The views and opinions expressed in this interview do not necessarily reflect those of The Patient Story.

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 and length. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider to make informed treatment decisions.

The views and opinions expressed in this interview do not necessarily reflect those of The Patient Story.

Thank you for sharing your story, Lauren!

Inspired by Lauren's story?

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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 and length. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider to make informed treatment decisions.

The views and opinions expressed in this interview do not necessarily reflect those of The Patient Story.

Thank you for sharing your story, Emily!

Inspired by Emily's story?

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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 and length. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider to make informed treatment decisions.

The views and opinions expressed in this interview do not necessarily reflect those of The Patient Story.

Thank you for sharing your story, Candace!

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Ben’s Grade 3 Brain Cancer (Oligodendroglioma)

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date April 17, 2025
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Ben Finds Strength and Self-Advocacy Amidst Grade 3 Brain Cancer (Oligodendroglioma)

When Ben moved to Manchester, he carried with him more than just his belongings — he brought a grade 3 brain cancer story of resilience, self-discovery, and unwavering advocacy, too. Diagnosed at just 24 with brain cancer (oligodendroglioma), Ben’s journey through unexpected seizures, misdiagnoses, and transformative treatments reshaped his identity and view on life.

Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Ben’s first seizure happened on his 18th birthday. The seizure was initially dismissed as an isolated incident linked to low phosphate levels. It wasn’t until more distressing episodes years later, during some of which he lost the ability to speak, and frustrating misdiagnoses of anxiety, that he discovered the real cause: a brain tumor, specifically an oligodendroglioma. This revelation came after persistent advocacy for his health, driven by his gut feeling that something was seriously wrong.

Ben’s grade 3 brain cancer experience highlights the importance of listening to your body and pushing for answers. He faced medical professionals who brushed off his symptoms, only to later uncover the truth through sheer determination. His diagnosis led to a whirlwind of treatments: brain surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. The physical challenges were immense, but Ben’s mental health battles were equally profound. He grappled with identity shifts, social anxiety, and the overwhelming task of finding a “new normal.”

What’s remarkable about Ben isn’t just his grade 3 brain cancer experience but also how he’s leveraging what he went through to advocate for others in the cancer community. He emphasizes the value of a strong support system — friends, family, therapists — and the need for mental health care alongside physical treatment. Ben’s candid reflections on his fears, frustrations, and triumphs offer a raw, authentic look at life with a brain tumor.

Now, Ben’s focused on self-acceptance and living authentically. His scar, once hidden under a cap, has become a symbol of his story, resilience, and growth. He’s learning to embrace life beyond grade 3 brain cancer, advocating for mental health awareness, and encouraging others to be their own strongest advocates.

Watch the video and learn more from Ben about:

What he wishes every young person knew about mental health and advocating for their health.
How his story progressed from misdiagnosed anxiety to a life-changing brain tumor diagnosis.
How he turned fear into strength and became his own biggest supporter after all his treatments.
The story of resilience and hope the scar he once hid now proudly tells.

Name:
- Ben M.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 24
Diagnosis:
- Brain Cancer (Oligodendroglioma)
Grade:
- Grade 3
Symptoms:
- Seizures
- Intermittent loss of ability to speak
Treatments:
- Surgery: awake craniotomy
- Radiotherapy
- Chemotherapy

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

The views and opinions expressed in this interview do not necessarily reflect those of The Patient Story.

Thank you for sharing your story, Ben!

Inspired by Ben's story?

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Kathleen’s Lobular Breast Cancer & Flat Closure Story

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date April 17, 2025
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Kathleen Reclaims Body Confidence After Lobular Breast Cancer

Kathleen opens up about her unexpected encounter with lobular breast cancer (invasive lobular carcinoma or ILC). Her story isn’t just about diagnoses and surgeries — it’s about resilience, body acceptance, and community.

Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Kathleen’s breast cancer story began subtly over a decade ago with a benign cyst in her right breast, which led doctors to monitor a faint shadow in her left breast. Despite regular check-ups, it wasn’t until she noticed bloody nipple discharge, a symptom she now knows can indicate breast cancer, that things escalated. Even with MRIs — one of which helped reveal that she had calcifications, a result of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) — ultrasounds, and biopsies, her cancer remained elusive until a mastectomy finally revealed the presence of lobular breast cancer or ILC, a sneaky type of cancer that spreads like a spider web, making it notoriously hard to detect in imaging.

Kathleen reacted swiftly and decisively to her diagnosis. Discovering invasive cancer in one breast prompted her to opt for a second mastectomy for peace of mind. Interestingly, she discovered that ILC accounts for about 15% of breast cancers, yet it flies under the radar compared to its more common counterpart, invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC ).

Choosing not to undergo reconstruction, Kathleen faced challenges advocating for her preference to remain flat. Unfortunately, her first plastic surgeon didn’t fully respect her wishes, leaving her with excess skin after surgery. This experience, known as “flat denial,” is common among women seeking a flat closure after mastectomy. However, Kathleen found her voice, connected with supportive online communities, and eventually met a surgeon who honored her decision.

Body-image recovery was transformative. Rather than dwelling on loss, Kathleen embraced her new body, drawing parallels to her carefree childhood self. She even had a beautiful wild rose tattoo done to celebrate her scars and overall experience. Her advocacy work with groups like the Lobular Breast Cancer Alliance and Stand Tall AFC has helped empower countless women to embrace their post-mastectomy bodies confidently, just as she has.

Kathleen’s health journey didn’t stop with surgery. As a nutritionist, she initially believed diet was the key to cancer prevention but later shifted her focus to exercise oncology. She now leads Walk Away From Breast Cancer, a community initiative that promotes physical activity among survivors.

Kathleen’s story is a beacon of hope, illustrating that life after cancer isn’t just about survival — it’s about thriving, self-acceptance, and finding strength in community. Watch her video to learn more from her about:

Why she chose to go flat — and how this pivotal decision reshaped her life.
How she found freedom and confidence after her double mastectomy.
The invisible side of breast cancer: her journey with hard-to-detect ILC.
How she turned body-image struggles into empowerment and advocacy.

Name:
- Kathleen M.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 49
Diagnosis:
- Lobular Breast Cancer (Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC))
Symptoms:
- Bloody nipple discharge
- Appearance of “shadow” during breast ultrasound
Treatments:
- Surgery: mastectomy
- Hormone therapy

Kathleen M. lobular breast cancer invasive lobular carcinoma ILC

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

The views and opinions expressed in this interview do not necessarily reflect those of The Patient Story.

Thank you for sharing your story, Kathleen!

Inspired by Kathleen's story?

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Camilla’s Stage 4 Stomach Cancer: Choosing Her Own Path

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date April 17, 2025
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Camilla’s Story of Hope Beyond Terminal Stage 4 Stomach Cancer

Camilla, a 40-year-old mother of four, was diagnosed with terminal stage 4 stomach cancer in February 2025. While the diagnosis was shocking, to say the least, she discovered an unexpected clarity and appreciation for life. She admits it sounds odd, but her diagnosis flipped her perspective entirely — refocusing on her health, family, and self-love.

Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Before her diagnosis, Camilla sometimes had trouble swallowing and also discovered that a gland in her neck was swollen, something she initially dismissed as minor. It wasn’t until her symptoms worsened that she sought medical help, leading to an endoscopy that revealed a cancerous lesion. The CT scan results brought more devastating news: the stomach cancer had spread to her liver and lymph nodes. Despite being told that surgery wasn’t an option and only palliative chemotherapy was available, she chose a different path.

Camilla refused chemotherapy for her stage 4 stomach cancer and leaned into integrative health practices. She transformed her diet — cutting out sugar, dairy, and processed foods, and focusing instead on organic vegetables, fruits, wild fish, and whole grains. She incorporated fasting, yoga, meditation, and self-healing activities to support her mental and physical well-being.

Camila’s mental health has been a powerful part of her experience. She acknowledges that her emotional state directly affects her physical health. On down days, she feels the presence of her cancer more intensely, reinforcing the importance of maintaining a positive mindset. She embraces her feelings, allowing herself to cry, rest, and seek help without shame.

Planning her wedding for 2028, Camila embodies hope and determination. She refuses to accept her terminal stage 4 stomach cancer prognosis as her fate, believing that hope is vital for life. She is emphatic that one must never give up. Even when leaving the hospital with a terminal diagnosis, finding hope can transform despair into empowerment.

Watch Camilla’s video and learn from her about:

Finding hope after a terminal cancer diagnosis.
Why she refused chemotherapy and what she decided to do instead.
How mental health can impact physical well-being during illness.
The surprising ways her cancer diagnosis changed her life for the better.
Her secret to living with a purpose beyond a terminal prognosis.

Note for Readers: Every person’s experience with cancer is unique. Camilla’s treatment decisions are deeply personal and based on her values and circumstances after having been told that surgery is not an option and being offered palliative chemotherapy. The Patient Story encourages anyone facing a diagnosis to explore all available options and consult with their healthcare team to determine what’s best for them.

Name:
- Camilla C.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 40
Diagnosis:
- Stomach Cancer
Staging:
- Stage 4
Symptoms:
- Issues swallowing
- Swollen gland in the neck
Treatments:
- Palliative chemotherapy was offered but declined
- Nutritional changes to support her comfort and energy
- Meditation and mindfulness practices
- Self-directed healing methods

What is palliative care? Palliative care focuses on helping people feel as well as possible when living with serious illness. Treatment is not about curing the disease but focuses on easing pain, managing symptoms, and supporting emotional and spiritual well-being. People can receive palliative care at any stage of illness, alongside other treatments, or on its own.

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

The views and opinions expressed in this interview do not necessarily reflect those of The Patient Story.

Thank you for sharing your story, Camilla!

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