Caitlyn was diagnosed with stage 4 melanoma at 25 weeks pregnant. Her symptoms began with severe side pain, which was initially misdiagnosed as muscle spasms. After the pain escalated to pelvic pain, she was eventually airlifted to UCSF, where doctors discovered she had been bleeding internally. Further tests revealed tumors in her breast, up and down her spine, and brain, marking an aggressive spread of melanoma.

At 25 weeks pregnant, Caitlyn underwent emergency surgery to stop the internal bleeding, with her daughter closely monitored throughout. Lydia was born prematurely at 26 weeks, weighing just 2 lbs 4 oz. Five days later, Caitlyn began her cancer treatment.

The tumors responded so rapidly to the treatment that Caitlyn’s kidneys couldn’t keep up, leading to dialysis. Her health challenges continued as she suffered from multiple fractures in her spine, seizures, and brain tumors, and had to relearn how to walk. Despite these overwhelming difficulties, Caitlyn remains focused on being a mother to Lydia and fighting for her future.

Caitlyn’s treatment plan includes monthly visits to UCSF, where she receives Opdualag, despite being allergic to it. The treatment process is arduous, involving multiple blood draws, difficulty finding veins for infusions, and prolonged treatments due to her allergies. Caitlyn experiences severe side effects, including extreme fatigue, migraines, nausea, and stretch marks from swelling, which have left her with fragile skin prone to blood blisters.

Throughout her ordeal, Caitlyn emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive mindset and being your own advocate. She recounts how her initial concerns about a mole were dismissed by doctors, which later proved to be skin cancer. Now, she is passionate about educating others on the importance of self-checks, sun safety, and second opinions. Caitlyn also shares her efforts to support melanoma research by starting a small business, with part of the proceeds going towards the cause.

Caitlyn’s main motivation is her daughter, Lydia, and she is determined to be there for her milestones. She draws strength from her late godmother, who remained positive despite her cancer. Caitlyn advocates for living each day to the fullest, ensuring that her legacy is one of positivity and resilience. Her message to others is to cherish each day and never hesitate to seek the care and support needed, even in the face of daunting challenges like a stage 4 cancer diagnosis.