May 22, 2025

Brittany’s Story: Life, Love, and Hope After Ovarian Cancer

When Brittany found out that she had stage 3.75 ovarian cancer at just 23 years old, her world shifted dramatically. Reflecting on her journey, she shares an honest, heartfelt account of the physical and emotional hurdles she faced — and how survivorship, self-advocacy, and mental health became central to her life.

Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Brittany’s symptoms began early. At 13, she experienced intense stomach pain so severe she couldn’t lie flat. Doctors repeatedly attributed the pain to ulcers. They continued to do so for nearly a decade, even as Brittany endured heavy menstrual bleeding and persistent discomfort. Eventually, a routine gynecological exam raised alarms, leading to an emergency room visit. It was there that she learned she had ovarian cysts, but no one suspected cancer — until surgery revealed stage 3.75 ovarian cancer, which had already spread to many of her organs.

This diagnosis was startling and surreal. Brittany vividly recalls the numbness she felt as her doctor explained the severity. She underwent seven rounds of chemotherapy, each session marked by small rituals — wearing high socks, coloring, and finding comfort in family support. Losing her hair was a particularly emotional experience, symbolising the visible reality of her illness. Brittany didn’t shave her head immediately, holding onto denial even as her hair fell out in clumps.

Survivorship, for Brittany, isn’t just about being cancer-free. It’s about embracing life fully, despite the lingering anxiety of recurrence. She acknowledges that mental health is an ongoing battle, with moments of grief for experiences lost and friendships that changed. Yet, she channels her energy into family, creating joyful memories with her husband and their extended family. Weekend gatherings, celebrations, and spontaneous adventures reflect her determination to live vibrantly.

Self-advocacy played a crucial role in Brittany’s story. After years of being dismissed by doctors, she learned the importance of trusting her instincts. This lesson fuels her advocacy today, encouraging others to speak up about their health concerns.

Brittany also emphasizes therapy’s role in her healing from ovarian cancer. Processing the trauma of her diagnosis, treatment, and the emotional aftermath helped her navigate complex feelings about fertility, identity, and loss. She’s candid about her struggles, offering hope to others facing similar battles.

Her message is simple yet powerful: “Being brave comes in waves, but let fear disappear.” She believes in the enduring power of hope, faith, and community support. Brittany’s life after ovarian cancer is not defined by fear but by the freedom to seize every moment with authenticity and joy.

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