Her stage 4 stomach cancer diagnosis finally came in November 2023, after years of persistent, unexplained symptoms. What followed was an emotional rollercoaster that involved overwhelming scans, inaccessible appointments, and endless insurance calls. Even as a nurse, navigating the cancer system was foreign and disorienting. But through it all, Mary Jane leaned into self-advocacy, refusing to accept vague answers and seeking multiple opinions. Her persistence was a lifeline.

Though the cancer is incurable and has spread extensively, Mary Jane has found hope in treatment. Immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and chemotherapy have helped manage her symptoms and extend her life. She’s now learning how to live with the side effects while centering joy, peace, and meaning in her day-to-day life.

Mary Jane’s story shows that stage 4 stomach cancer doesn’t erase identity, but reshapes it. Her mental health has become a focus, and she leans on nature, movement, and friendships to keep her grounded. She took a break from work, finished her degree, and has traveled the world, checking off bucket list dreams with gratitude and purpose.

Her perspective has shifted. She no longer saves joy for later. Every moment counts, every meal matters, and every mountain hike is a victory. Mary Jane wants others to know how important it is to listen to your body. She urges others to trust themselves and speak up. Her story is about survivorship, not in terms of years, but in finding meaning — through strength, clarity, and peace even through terminal illness.

Watch Mary Jane’s interview to know more about her story:

• How a psychiatric nurse practitioner learned to trust her instincts despite years of dismissed symptoms.
• What it’s like to be diagnosed with stage 4 stomach cancer while navigating grad school and divorce.
• Why Mary Jane says her life became more meaningful after her terminal diagnosis.
• From paddleboarding to the Camino de Santiago, how Mary Jane is still chasing joy with incurable cancer.