Author: Chris Sanchez

Breaking the Silence: One Woman’s Bladder Cancer Story

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date January 17, 2025
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Breaking the Silence: One Woman’s Bladder Cancer Story

The Many Faces of Bladder Cancer: Voices of Strength and Resilience

Our series, The Many Faces of Bladder Cancer: Voices of Strength and Resilience, shares genuine stories from people battling bladder cancer. Monica’s story below brings a spotlight to bladder cancer in women. These powerful stories highlight the experiences and the challenges faced by patients and survivors. This series intends to foster hope, understanding, and a fresh outlook on dealing with this condition while raising bladder cancer awareness.

Whether you’re a patient, care partner/giver, or someone interested in learning about bladder cancer, our goal is that these stories of bravery and resolve of those facing bladder cancer will increase awareness and break down myths. Most importantly, we hope you learn the importance of self-advocacy in your own healthcare.

Thank you to Pfizer and Astellas for supporting our patient education program. The Patient Story retains full editorial control over all content.

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

Thank you to Imerman Angels for their partnership. Imerman Angels is here to provide comfort and understanding for all cancer fights, survivors, previvors, and care partners through a personalized, one-on-one connection with someone who has been there.

From Recurrent UTIs to Bladder Cancer: Monica’s Story

Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Table of Contents

Introduction
Initial Symptoms
What the UTIs Felt Like
Getting a Bladder Cancer Diagnosis
Finding the Right Doctor
Multiple Recurrences and Successful Treatment
Follow-ups
How Bladder Cancer Changed Her Life
What Support Looks Like to Her
Redefining Her Identity
Raising Awareness: What Monica Wants People to Know About Bladder Cancer
Words of Advice

Introduction

Monica began her battle with bladder cancer in 2004 after experiencing recurrent UTIs and finding a lump during a routine checkup. Her proactive gynecologist referred her for an ultrasound, leading to a diagnosis of non-invasive bladder cancer. She faced emotional challenges with initial medical communication, but found a supportive urologist who helped her understand her condition. Rigorous treatment eventually stopped the cancer’s recurrence. She now undergoes annual checkups, managing anxiety and her weakened bladder.

Monica receives immense support from loved ones and the cancer community, which empowers her to share her story and inspire others. Her experience taught her to live fully, shifting from survival to thriving with purpose and resilience. She advises engaging with healthcare providers and staying positive, emphasizing the importance of being proactive and resilient in navigating cancer, thus offering hope and encouragement to others facing similar challenges.

I was getting recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) and those were the only times I would see blood in my urine

I was diagnosed with non-invasive bladder cancer in 2004.

I currently reside in Virginia. I enjoy spending time with my husband. We celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary in June 2024. We love to travel, go to the beach, and enjoy living life every day to its fullest.

Initial Symptoms

At the time, I had no symptoms that raised a red flag. I was getting recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) and those were the only times I would see blood in my urine, which is one of the signs of bladder cancer to be on the lookout for. I would get an infection, take an antibiotic, and it would go away, but it would come back again.

On one particular year though, I was going in to have my annual pap smear and doing that examination. The gynecologist felt something that she thought was over my reproductive area. She said, “I feel a lump or something there. I’m going to send you to get an ultrasound.” When I got the results, she told me that there was something in my bladder and referred me to a urologist.

I went to the urologist. The appointments and follow-up, getting a diagnosis, and getting the results back probably took a month and a half to two months. The urologist did a cystoscope and said there was something there, so they had to do TURBT, which is a transurethral resection of a bladder tumor. After the procedure, they told me that I had bladder cancer.

I like knowing more of the signs and symptoms and being more cognitive. If you see some of those things, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you have bladder cancer, but it will raise a red flag to say you need to have further testing to know what’s going on. Build your awareness and be proactive.

Pay attention if you have urinary urgency, burning sensation, pain, or if you see any hint of blood… Those are symptoms that should raise a red flag.

What the UTIs Felt Like

My UTIs were very, very painful. Almost indescribably so. The pain would go away with antibiotics, but a few months later, it would come back again. Pay attention if you have urinary urgency, burning sensation, pain, or if you see any hint of blood. I’ve heard people say they saw a drop and that was it, and they didn’t pay attention to it. Those are symptoms that should raise a red flag.

I thought, “What’s going on? What’s wrong with me? Why does this keep happening?” I was drinking water, trying to flush my system out, and I didn’t understand. Nothing was adding up. I was relieved when the doctor said something was in my bladder, even though I never thought it would be cancer. It was a relief to finally find out what was going on and the reason behind what was happening leading up to the diagnosis. I’m forever thankful to the gynecologist for taking the extra step to do the ultrasound.

Getting a Bladder Cancer Diagnosis

The day I learned I had cancer was an emotional roller coaster. It taught me the importance of advocating for myself.

My urologist at the time came in, told me that I had bladder cancer, and walked out of the room with no explanation. I sat there crying because I was very emotional. His nurse then came in and said, “We need to schedule you to have this done and that done.” I was shocked. It took me a while to gather myself to even drive home. I ended up getting another urologist because we were not on the same page.

I went online because I had never heard of this type of cancer. I found a lot of information, which was overwhelming. I didn’t fit any of the criteria of someone who would typically get bladder cancer.

I also didn’t see a lot of support groups in my area, which was a little concerning. We kept researching until I found an organization that specifically dealt with bladder cancer, bladder cancer patients, and caregivers. I linked up with that organization and continued to educate myself, my family, and my community.

He talked to my husband and explained in great detail what would happen, the treatment plan, and what we would do for surveillance. I was so happy to find the right doctor for me.

Finding the Right Doctor

I was undergoing checkups every 3 months, but when it would get close to that point, the nurse would call and say, “Oh, he’s not available on your scheduled appointment. Can you come next week?” This started happening repetitively. Every 3 months when I went back, the bladder cancer was back, so I didn’t want to go every 4 to 6 months. I wanted to stick to the 3-month schedule and not a day over.

I called the urology center and said, “I need someone else who’s going to be more attentive, on schedule, and has my best interests at heart.” They directed me to someone else and he’s who I’ve had since then.

We fit. He has a great bedside manner. He draws pictures to help me better understand the terms they throw out. He talked to my husband and explained in great detail what would happen, the treatment plan, and what we would do for surveillance. I was so happy to find the right doctor for me.

Multiple Recurrences and Successful Treatment

I would get a recurrence probably every 3 months between the first and the fifth year. Even though it was low-grade, non-invasive, and didn’t penetrate through my bladder, it was very aggressive.

They started a different type of treatment for which I had to go in every Thursday. I would get a catheter, get the drug injected into the catheter, and then I had to hold it in my bladder for 2 hours. When I went home, I had to rotate every 15 minutes for up to 2 hours and then let it out. I never understood this, but those were the instructions, so I followed them.

I did a series of those treatments for a couple of months. I never had a recurrence after that, thankfully.

My bladder is very weak and I’m not able to hold my urine, so when I go anywhere, I scope out every location to make sure there’s a bathroom nearby.

Follow-ups

I’m on annual surveillance so I go in for a check-up once a year. The doctor does a scan from my waist down and a cystoscope. Then we go from there. That’s pretty much what it’s been like for the last several years.

It’s still nerve-wracking. They call it scanxiety. You’re sitting there wondering if he will find anything or if something will show up. I still get a little anxious when I go to those appointments. But this is something that I have to deal with because I have to be under surveillance for the rest of my life.

How Bladder Cancer Changed Her Life

The biggest thing for me is not having a fully functioning bladder. My bladder is very weak and I’m not able to hold my urine, so when I go anywhere, I scope out every location to make sure there’s a bathroom nearby.

For everyone else on this journey, it’s the same thing for all of us. We’re always looking for the restrooms. I’m very cautious about what I drink. I tend to avoid things that will make me go more frequently, like caffeine. I mostly drink water or green tea.

I was in survival mode but I shifted to “thrival” mode. I learned to not only survive but also to thrive, even with a bladder cancer journey.

What Support Looks Like to Her

I’m so thankful for my husband. He’s been there the whole time. He’s walked with me every step of the way. My family, friends, and church family have been so supportive as well.

I also have a cancer support group with women of all different types of cancer. I also belong to an advocacy network that focuses on bladder cancer awareness. All of those sources of support keep me well-rounded. It helps me to share my story and, my journey with bladder cancer with the hope that it will help someone else in this situation.

Redefining Her Identity

There was definitely a shift due to my experience. I’ve always enjoyed traveling and relaxing but that wasn’t a priority. Now, I take advantage of that, whether meeting up with my family for the holidays or getting together to talk. I cherish and take advantage of those moments.

I try to live every day to its fullest and not take anything for granted. I still live life, but it was a shift. Now, my mindset is, “Let’s do this.” I was in survival mode but I shifted to “thrival” mode. I learned to not only survive but also to thrive, even with a bladder cancer journey.

Even though you’re going to go through some hills and valleys, continue to stay positive, keep the faith, and trust the process.

Raising Awareness: What Monica Wants People to Know About Bladder Cancer

Before, I thought that hearing “cancer” was a death sentence. It’s going to be over. But you need to change your mindset and believe that everything’s going to be okay, even though you might have those times when you feel that it isn’t.

Keep moving forward, stay positive, and do things that make you happy. I love to walk. I like to journal to clear my head. When things were getting a little difficult for me to handle, I sought therapy to help me get through those tough times. It’s a lot to deal with and it can be overwhelming. Sometimes you need to reach out to get additional help.

In the beginning, I did ask: why me? Then it shifted to: why not me? I feel like we all have a plan and purpose for our lives, and this was the plan and purpose for me, even though no one wants to be a part of that club and be diagnosed with cancer.

There have been a lot of silver linings with being diagnosed, like meeting some wonderful people who have become my extended family. We’ve walked through these journeys, cried, and supported one another. I continue to share my story. I hope to give somebody the hope that they’re not alone, that there is help out there, and that they can get through it.

Words of Advice

Sometimes, I think people are afraid to ask their doctors questions. But it’s your life and your body. Be more confident and bold to ask what you need to ask. Bring up your concerns about whatever treatment plan or information that you may have.

If you are unfortunately diagnosed with bladder cancer, you’re not alone. Find a support group. Find a doctor who matches what you’re looking for. Even though you’re going to go through some hills and valleys, continue to stay positive, keep the faith, and trust the process.

Special thanks again to Pfizer and Astellas for supporting our patient education program! The Patient Story retains full editorial control over all content.

Bladder Cancer Resources

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Bladder cancer patients Ebony & LaSonya talk about their cancer journey, including their first symptoms, how they processed their diagnosis, treatment options, and how they found support. Dr. Samuel Washington, a urologic surgeon, also gives an overview of bladder cancer and its treatments.
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Diagnosis and Treatment for Bladder Cancer

Learn about the diagnosis and treatment process from bladder cancer survivors and medical experts. Discover diagnosis and treatment options./p>

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Tiffany’s Stage 4 Liver Cancer Story

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date January 16, 2025
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January 16, 2025

Tiffany’s Stage 4 Liver Cancer Story

Tiffany, a 38-year-old mother of 4, has stage 4 bile duct cancer or cholangiocarcinoma, also known as liver cancer. In April 2024, she experienced severe left flank pain, which led her to seek medical attention. A CT scan at the hospital revealed a mass on her liver, initially suspected to be colon cancer. Further tests, including an MRI, PET scan, and liver biopsy, confirmed the diagnosis of cholangiocarcinoma that had spread to her spine.

Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Following the diagnosis, Tiffany began receiving treatment. Her oncologist initiated a combination of chemotherapy and immunotherapy, alternating between therapies weekly, with a rest period every 3 weeks. Despite initial radiation treatments failing to shrink the tumor on her spine, targeted radiation was applied to her liver, followed by spine surgery to remove most of the tumor. Recovery was challenging, requiring a week-long hospital stay, physical therapy, and the use of a walker and cane at home.

Subsequent treatment involved ablation surgery to address new lesions on her liver. Tiffany resumed chemotherapy and immunotherapy, experiencing side effects such as back pain, headaches, and nausea. As her treatment continued, she received support from her medical team, including a liver specialist in Baltimore.

Mentally, Tiffany struggles with anxiety and the fear of leaving her family. She takes anxiety medication to help cope, though the emotional toll remains significant. She stresses the importance of self-advocacy, sharing her story to raise awareness about cholangiocarcinoma and stressing the importance of regular medical check-ups.

The ongoing battle with cancer challenges Tiffany physically and emotionally, but she remains determined to see her children grow up. Her story serves as a reminder to pay attention to one’s health and advocate strongly for oneself in the face of medical challenges.

Name:
- Tiffany J.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 38
Diagnosis:
- Liver cancer (cholangiocarcinoma)
Staging:
- Stage 4
Initial Symptoms:
- Left flank pain
Treatment:
- Radiation
- Chemotherapy
- Surgery

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, Tiffany!

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Amy’s story began with a routine colonoscopy in February 2023, during which doctors discovered a small bulge in her appendix. Although it was initially deemed non-threatening, a follow-up CT scan revealed appendiceal nuclei, prompting her to undergo an appendectomy in April 2023. Though the procedure appeared to be successful, Amy anxiously awaited the pathology results.

Soon afterwards, Amy learned she had appendix cancer, the same rare condition her sister-in-law had been diagnosed with, leading her to Memorial Sloan Ketterin g in New York City. As she adapted to this unexpected turn, Amy sought support through a Facebook group for appendix cancer patients. There, she discovered the rarity and complexity of her condition, often misdiagnosed as ovarian cancer among women.

At Memorial Sloan Kettering, Amy underwent a significant surgery in June 2023. Her slow-growing cancer meant she did not receive the CRS-HIPEC treatment, common for appendix cancer. Fortunately, her prognosis was better than her sister-in-law’s due to differences in pathology. Her PCI score, used to assess cancer spread in the abdomen, was a low 3, indicating minimal spread (scores range from 1-39, PSOGI).

Amy now faces regular scans every few months to monitor her condition. Her outlook on life has shifted, embracing her present rather than fearing an uncertain future. Despite being at stage 4, Amy remains positive, focusing on living without fear while cherishing smaller joys.

Amy advocates for listening to one’s body and acting promptly on health concerns, emphasizing that time is crucial with cancer diagnoses. Her experience underscores the importance of thorough research, finding emotional support, and demanding the necessary care, like physical therapy, to maintain quality of life. Her journey highlights resilience in the face of rare cancer, stressing the importance of early detection and proactive health management.

Name:
- Amy M.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 51
Diagnosis:
- Appendix cancer (low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm [LAMN])
Staging:
- Stage 4
Initial Symptoms:
- Irritable bowel syndrome
Treatment:
- Surgery (appendectomy)

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, Amy!

Inspired by Amy's story?

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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, Rachael!

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Jill Feldman’s EGFR Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Story

Jill Feldman has become one of the most recognized names in the lung cancer advocacy space, not just for other patient advocates, but also for key lung cancer doctors and researchers.

A dedicated lung cancer advocate from Chicago, Jill’s story begins in her youth, with the losses of her grandparents, father, mother, and aunt to cancer, all within a relatively short time frame. It drove Jill to advocate for lung cancer research and early detection, including through assuming leadership roles at the LUNGevity Foundation.

Then she got her own lung cancer diagnosis.

Interviewed by: Stephanie Chuang
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

In 2009, doctors diagnosed Jill with stage 1A lung cancer during routine surveillance she had pursued due to her family’s history. Her EGFR-positive status allowed her to benefit from targeted therapies, and she highlights the critical role of biomarker testing in personalized cancer care. Her cancer responded to the treatment, but returned some years later.

Jill emphasizes the stigma surrounding lung cancer, often tied to assumptions about smoking. She argues that such misconceptions detract from providing patients and families with proper support and compassion. Her advocacy aims to shift the narrative and ensure that every patient receives understanding, regardless of their history.

Jill underscores the importance of building trust and empathy between medical professionals and patients, advocating for clear and compassionate communication throughout the diagnostic and treatment journey. Her advocacy extends beyond her diagnosis. She continues to educate others, including on social media, about lung cancer screening and the advancements in treatment that save lives. Jill believes that empowering patients with knowledge about biomarker testing can help them make informed decisions and feel more in control during a challenging time.

Jill’s personal life remains a source of joy and motivation. She cherishes time spent with family and friends, outdoor activities, traveling, and volunteering. She explores new hobbies and finds solace in giving back to the community that supported her.

Jill’s message focuses on hope, resilience, and the power of advocacy. She encourages others to confront stigma, share their stories, and lean on one another for strength. Her journey, intertwined with loss and triumph, illustrates the importance of raising awareness, fostering empathy, and supporting ongoing research for better treatment outcomes. Jill concludes by reminding listeners that every story holds power and that no one should face their journey alone.

We would like to thank The White Ribbon Project for its partnership.

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

Thank you to Johnson & Johnson for supporting our patient education program. The Patient Story retains full editorial control over all content.

Name:
- Jill F.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 39
Diagnosis:
- Non-small cell lung cancer with EGFR exon 19 deletion
Staging:
- Stage 1A
Symptoms:
- Nodule found during periodic scan
Treatments:
- Surgery
- Targeted therapy
- 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, Jill!

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Jessica, from Abilene, TX, shares her journey after having been diagnosed with a rare form of pancreatic cancer — a solid pseudopapillary neoplasm.

Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Jessica’s symptoms began with persistent gastrointestinal discomfort, initially misdiagnosed as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). In June 2024, severe abdominal pain led her to the ER, where imaging revealed inflammation in her pancreas. Follow-up tests discovered a 2.5 cm mass. A series of inconclusive biopsies led to a second procedure confirming a malignant, though typically non-cancerous, solid pseudopapillary neoplasm tumor, a diagnosis Jessica grappled with.

Jessica’s surgeon in Dallas recommended the Whipple procedure, involving removal of part of the pancreas, stomach, gallbladder, and small intestine. Surgery lasted 6 hours, followed by a week-long hospital stay marked by complications, from which she swiftly recovered due to her youth. Post-surgery, tests revealed clear lymph nodes, no metastasis, and a staging of 1B. Genetic testing ruled out hereditary links for her pancreatic cancer, attributing her condition to “bad luck.”

Jessica reflected on the mental toll of her experience, balancing her military career, family, and health challenges. She leaned on her husband and family for emotional support, embracing vulnerability and setting boundaries for her mental well-being. She also faced impostor syndrome, struggling with her comparatively “easier” journey.

Jessica’s post-surgery life includes regular bloodwork and scans to monitor nutrient absorption and detect recurrence. She highlights the importance of patient advocacy and early detection, emphasizing that her incidental diagnosis may have saved her life. She advocates for awareness of rare cancers and shares her story, including on her Instagram account, to inspire others to prioritize their health and validate their emotions during medical challenges.

Jessica’s message: cancer journeys differ, but all experiences are valid. She urges others to seek care for any symptom, however minor, and hopes that sharing her rare diagnosis raises awareness and empowers others to take control of their own health.

Name:
- Jessica B.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 26
Diagnosis:
- Pancreatic cancer (malignant solid pseudopapillary neoplasm (SPN) of the pancreas)
Staging:
- Stage 1B
Initial Symptoms:
- Upper abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Treatment:
- Surgery (Pancreaticoduodenectomy ((Whipple procedure))

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, Jessica!

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Kyle and Rachel advise others in similar situations to hope, advocate, and seek the right team of doctors. Their story highlights resilience, with Kyle’s belief in his recovery driving them forward.

Name:
- Kyle O.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 26
Diagnosis:
- Brain cancer (glioblastoma)
Grade:
- Grade 4
Initial Symptoms:
- Trouble speaking (stuttering) and thinking properly (struggled to remember what certain words meant)
Treatment:
- Surgery (craniotomy)
- 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.

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Tags caregivers, recurrence

Chemotherapy Colon Colorectal Eloxatin (oxaliplatin) fluorouracil 5fu FOLFOX (folinic acid, fluorouracil, oxaliplatin) Panitumumab Patient Stories Surgery Treatments Xeloda (capecitabine)

Ken’s Stage 4 Colon Cancer Story

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date January 6, 2025
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January 6, 2025

Ken’s Stage 4 Colon Cancer Story

Ken, 59, from Minnesota, shares his journey battling stage 4 colon cancer, which he was diagnosed with in October 2022. His life prior to diagnosis included an adventurous career as a meteorologist and storm chaser, followed by a long stint as a volunteer English teacher in the Himalayas. However, in 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic forced a change of plans, and he settled back in the U.S. with his family.

Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Initially, Ken ignored concerning symptoms like intermittent bowel changes and blood traces, attributing them to minor issues. His symptoms diversified and intensified in late 2022, with frequent fevers, weight loss, and fatigue. After visiting urgent care, he received a CT scan revealing thickening of the sigmoid colon and metastasis to his liver [making it a stage 4 colon cancer diagnosis]. His oncologist warned him that without treatment, his life expectancy was limited to under a year. Though chemotherapy was initiated promptly, Ken faced immediate complications, including endocarditis, which halted his treatment temporarily and required a PICC line and weeks of antibiotics. The chemotherapy’s side effects left him drained and underweight, sinking to his lowest point emotionally and physically by early 2023.

A critical moment came when Ken experienced an intestinal blockage. Doctors recommended palliative care and hospice, as his heart was too weak for surgery. However, Ken’s cousin, a liver specialist at MD Anderson, connected him to the Mayo Clinic, where surgeons conducted a life-saving colectomy and liver resection, removing 68% of his liver. This marked a turning point in his recovery, as he began to regain weight and strength.

In 2024, after successfully undergoing a heart valve replacement and prostate procedure, Ken faced new challenges as scans revealed minor cancer regrowth. His oncology team pursued aggressive treatments, including ablations for liver and lung spots, as well as new medications, all of which proved highly effective. Despite persistent health challenges and skin reactions, Ken’s latest scan in mid-July 2024 showed that his treatment was working remarkably well.

Throughout this ordeal, Ken’s faith and positive outlook and his strong support network of family and medical teams helped him navigate his complex diagnosis and treatment, underscoring his resilience and determination to overcome each new hurdle.

Name:
- Ken S.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 59
Diagnosis:
- Colon cancer
Staging:
- Stage 4
Symptoms:
- Intermittent appearance of blood in stool
- Occasional diarrhea
- Increase in bowel movement frequency
- Fevers and chills
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
Treatments:
- Chemotherapy
- Surgery

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, Ken!

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Adjusting to life with a colostomy bag, Roshonda emphasizes listening to her body and finding what works best for her. Though the journey has been painful and challenging, she remains grateful for her support network, faith, and the resilience she’s developed throughout her battle.

Name:
- Roshonda C.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 37
Diagnosis:
- Rectal cancer
Staging:
- Stage 4
Initial Symptoms:
- Blood in stool
- Blood from rectum after intercourse
- Sensation of incomplete bowel movements
Treatment:
- Chemotherapy
- Surgery
- 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, Roshonda!

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Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Kate, a 35-year-old mother of two from Brantford, Canada, was diagnosed with stage 4 hormone-positive breast cancer in late 2024.

Kate’s journey began in 2022, when she discovered a lump while breastfeeding her daughter. At the time, doctors dismissed it as a cyst, stating she was too young for a mammogram or biopsy. Over the years, doctors repeatedly disregarded her concerns, despite the lump growing significantly.

Balancing her roles as a mother, wife, and student pursuing a master’s in applied disabilities, Kate experienced severe anxiety, insomnia, and high blood pressure. She and her doctors had chalked these symptoms up to her hectic life, but later realized that they were signs of her advancing cancer. After she finally underwent a mammogram, ultrasound, and biopsy in July 2024, her hormone positive breast cancer was diagnosed as stage 3. However, additional scans confirmed that it was instead stage 4, after it had been found to have spread to her hip bone and some lung lymph nodes.

Kate quickly began an aggressive treatment plan, consisting of chemotherapy, a planned double mastectomy, and radiation. Despite the option to transition to palliative care, she chose to continue fighting for her family, especially her young children. Kate faces the physical and emotional toll of treatment, including exhaustion, chemo fog, and hair loss. Losing her hair was particularly difficult, but she found solace in the support of her husband and children, who embrace her unconditionally.

Her children, a 6-year-old son and a 2-year-old daughter, keep her motivated, though she struggles with guilt over their missed activities due to her treatment. Kate stays active in their lives, ensuring normalcy while relying on her strong support system, including family and friends who celebrated her birthday with a surprise party before her chemotherapy began.

Though she mourns the loss of aspects of her femininity, including the prospect of a hysterectomy due to her hormone positive breast cancer subtype, Kate prioritizes survival for her family. She and her husband chose not to freeze her eggs, feeling content with their 2 children.

Kate remains grateful for her oncologist, who has been thorough in diagnostics and treatment planning. She has not sought a second opinion, trusting his expertise. While the road ahead is uncertain and involves continued treatments, Kate draws strength from her determination to see her children grow and her close-knit circle of loved ones. Despite the challenges, her resolve to fight for more time with her family, to live her life to the fullest, and to help others advocate for themselves defines her journey.

Name:
- Kate C.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 34
Diagnosis:
- Breast cancer (hormone receptor positive)
Staging:
- Stage 4
Symptoms:
- Rapidly growing tumor in right breast
- High blood pressure
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
Treatment:
- Chemotherapy