I Have a Rare Cancer Diagnosis: Abbie’s Solitary Plasmacytoma of Bone Story
When Abbie was diagnosed with solitary plasmacytoma of bone at just 21, her world didn’t just pause — it shifted completely. Living in Des Moines, Iowa and studying abroad right before her diagnosis, she went from planning medical school to confronting the realities of a rare blood cancer that most people her age have never heard of. While her condition was caught relatively early, the emotional and mental weight of it all hit just as hard as the physical effects.
Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Katrina Villareal
It all began with rib pain that seemed minor but wouldn’t go away. Even though a lesion had been spotted years earlier during a scan, it wasn’t until the pain worsened and a biopsy confirmed the diagnosis that everything became real. And like many young people navigating healthcare, Abbie had to advocate for herself before finally finding a doctor who truly listened, which made all the difference.

Abbie underwent six weeks of daily radiation, and although treatment was quick and effective, it wasn’t without challenges. Pain became unbearable, landing her in the hospital and on a complex pain regimen. Still, she managed her treatment largely on her own, even driving herself to appointments. Her resilience is clear but so is the mental toll.
Abbie opens up about what it’s like living with constant uncertainty. With a 70% chance her cancer could progress to multiple myeloma, “scanxiety” is real and ever-present. Every six months, she returns to the Mayo Clinic, holding her breath and hoping her scans are clear.
Yet amidst this uncertainty, Abbie has found a new kind of clarity. Her solitary plasmacytoma of bone diagnosis reshaped how she views success, purpose, and even her identity. She no longer chases external expectations; instead, she’s intentional with her time, her relationships, and her choices. She doesn’t take anything or anyone for granted.
Despite feeling isolated at times due to her age and the rarity of her condition, Abbie is committed to sharing her story, hoping others with solitary plasmacytoma of bone or any rare diagnosis feel less alone. Her advice is simple but powerful: Be grateful. Be vulnerable. Be open. And know that even in moments of solitude, you’re never truly alone.
Watch Abbie’s story to find out more about:
- What it’s like to be diagnosed with a rare cancer at 21 and feel like no one gets it.
- How one supportive doctor changed everything for Abbie.
- The emotional rollercoaster of living with “scanxiety” every six months.
- Why Abbie walked away from her medical school dreams.
- The unexpected ways cancer redefined her idea of happiness and success.
- Name: Abigail W.
- Age at Diagnosis:
- 21
- Diagnosis:
- Solitary Plasmacytoma of Bone (SPB)
- Symptoms:
- Lesion on rib visible on earlier scans
- Persistent rib pain (localized)
- Fatigue
- Treatment:
- Radiation therapy
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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