From the beginning, Haley took an active role in her care. She scoured online test results, Googled medical terms, and advocated for the best surgical team to perform the complex Whipple procedure. This mindset helped her feel empowered, even in moments of uncertainty. She was shocked to learn her pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor wasn’t genetic, especially given her family history of cancer on her mom’s side.

What stands out in Haley’s experience is her focus on mental health and identity. She allows herself to feel everything — grief, fear, gratitude — and takes things day by day. Her humor, spirituality, and self-awareness keep her grounded through it all. Despite her fears about recurrence, she leans into positivity and self-talk to keep her mind strong.

She also became more open about her experience with a pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor, showing off her scar in modeling photos and letting it be a source of pride rather than shame. At first, she kept the diagnosis private and even tried to push a new partner away. But over time, she realized that being vulnerable allowed her to receive support and to heal emotionally.

Navigating life post-surgery hasn’t been easy. Learning how her new body works, especially around eating and digestion, is an ongoing process. She now works with a team of specialists to stay healthy and informed. But above all, Haley emphasizes this: listen to your body, trust your intuition, and don’t be afraid to speak up. Neuroendocrine pancreatic cancer may have disrupted her life, but it hasn’t defined it.

Watch Haley’s full interview to find out more about her story:

• Discover how she turned a shocking cancer diagnosis into a powerful reminder to trust your body.
• As a model, find out how she reclaimed her identity in the process.
• What it means to advocate for yourself in the face of a life-altering diagnosis.
• Learn how Haley reshaped her mindset after losing part of her stomach, pancreas, and gallbladder.