Tag: fertility

Advocating for Yourself: Kacie’s Experience with Ovarian Cancer

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date November 18, 2025
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November 18, 2025

Advocating for Yourself: Kacie’s Experience with Ovarian Cancer (Stage 3 Low-Grade Serous Ovarian Carcinoma)

Kacie was diagnosed with ovarian cancer (stage 3 low-grade serous ovarian carcinoma) just after her 30th birthday. But her experience began years before with persistent, misdiagnosed symptoms, including painful periods and pelvic pain, that were repeatedly attributed to endometriosis. It was only after a 14-cm pelvic mass was discovered that she learned that her symptoms were really due to an uncommon, aggressive form of ovarian cancer.

Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Support from her wife, Hayley, and family helped Kacie through the daunting series of treatments. Surgery brought both physical and emotional loss: the ovarian cancer had spread, resulting in a full hysterectomy and a devastating blow to her hopes of carrying a child. Post-surgical hurdles included bowel blockages, an ostomy, and a long, difficult recovery. Kacie’s resilience never faltered, though; she drew strength from her passions, especially photography, and documented this raw chapter in striking “rock the bald” portraits that would ultimately empower and encourage others facing similar diagnoses.

Kacie’s experience with chemotherapy and an ostomy came with unexpected challenges. She found chemotherapy less punishing than surgery, but adapting to life with an ostomy took time and self-compassion. As she healed, Kacie and Hayley pursued IVF and embraced a new vision of family. Connection with both Hayley and her grandmother, who would later undergo an ostomy herself, became a source of mutual healing and understanding.

Although her scans are now clear, the knowledge of a high recurrence rate, especially after a tumor rupture, lurks at the edges of each new day. Still, Kacie remains hopeful and honest. Through social media, she provides rare insight, advocacy, and practical guidance for others affected by low-grade serous ovarian cancer. Her story highlights the importance of self-advocacy and community.

Watch Kacie’s video and scroll down for her interview transcript. You’ll learn more about how:

Fertility challenges and loss may arise, but new paths to parenthood, like IVF, can bring hope and connection
Adjusting to life with an ostomy takes patience and experimentation, and sharing personal experiences can help others adjust
Joy and hope can coexist with fear of recurrence. Living authentically and embracing support is vital for long-term healing
Kacie transformed her most vulnerable moments into empowerment, helping both herself and others
No one should undertake the patient experience alone; support networks and openness are powerful tools

Name: Kacie K.
Diagnosis:
- Ovarian Cancer (Low-Grade Serous Ovarian Carcinoma)
Age at Diagnosis:
- 30
Staging:
- Stage 3
Symptoms:
- Pelvic pain
- Sharp pains during menstrual periods
- Inability to urinate normally
- Bleeding
Treatments:
- Surgeries: full hysterectomy, ostomy surgery, ostomy reversal surgery
- Chemotherapy

This interview has been edited for clarity and length. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider to make informed treatment decisions.

The views and opinions expressed in this interview do not necessarily reflect those of The Patient Story.

Transcript of Kacie’s Interview

My name is Kacie
Life before diagnosis: my family, work, and passions
My early symptoms were misdiagnosed
The moment everything changed
Coping with fertility loss and IVF hope
Chemotherapy and adjusting to an ostomy
Living with the fear of recurrence
Navigating marriage and my mental health
Ostomy reversal and helping others
My social media advocacy
What I want people to know

My name is Kacie

I was diagnosed with stage 3 low-grade ovarian cancer. It’s a very rare cancer. I was diagnosed when I was 30 years old in December 2024.

Life before diagnosis: my family, work, and passions

When I’m not working, I travel to see my family and friends in Chicago and Michigan. My dad passed away from cancer a couple of years ago, so going home can be tough. But I recently got married; my wife Hayley and I were married last year. Her family has surrounded me with so much love during this whole experience. My mom has been able to visit a few times, but it’s not quite the same. I’m so grateful for them.

I enjoy photography, mostly weddings and engagements. Right after my clear scan, I even shot a wedding after chemo. I was weaker, but I did it, and it felt amazing. I also love cooking for my wife and exploring the outdoors. We recently hiked the Grand Canyon.

We just love little adventures together. That’s what makes me happy.

I did a photo shoot to “rock the bald.” Some shots included scarves and wigs, but that plain one was my favorite.

It was important for me to document that time. A photographer friend invited me to her favorite studio. We just had fun with it, and I wanted something to look back on. I knew I’d never look like that again, so why not show it to the world?

When I got the photos back, I was in love. She captured them beautifully. Fun, candid moments and even the bald ones looked powerful. But sharing them publicly was scary at first. It’s a little bit exposing myself to social media, like fully bald for the first time, which is a scary thing to do.

My early symptoms were misdiagnosed

I had symptoms for years; really painful periods, severe pain during sex, and stabbing pelvic pain. At 21, my doctor told me it was probably endometriosis. For years afterward, I believed that and blamed every new symptom on “my stupid endometriosis.”

Then I developed urinary problems. I had to press on my pelvis to pee. During our honeymoon, it got worse. By December, my gynecologist couldn’t even do a Pap smear because of a large mass. She comforted me, saying, “You’re not crazy.”

An ultrasound showed a 14 cm pelvic mass. MRI scans couldn’t tell what it was connected to; maybe GI or ovarian. I was referred to a gynecologic oncologist who said I’d need surgery, but wasn’t sure which specialty needed to operate. Eventually, a colorectal surgeon joined the team.

I met them on my 30th birthday. The surgeon said I’d need major surgery with about two months of recovery time. The wait for surgery was long, and my symptoms got worse — urinary retention, bleeding, and pain.

I had to be such an advocate for myself because my symptoms were getting worse each day.

The moment everything changed

Days before surgery, I told my doctor it was really important to try to save my ovaries. I wanted to carry a child someday. She promised to try but couldn’t guarantee anything.

Surgery lasted eight hours. An hour and a half in, my wife got the call: “It’s definitely cancer.” They had to do a full hysterectomy because the cancer had spread through my pelvis and abdomen.

I woke up to everyone crying, but I didn’t yet know why. A nurse accidentally mentioned I’d had a hysterectomy, and my mom confirmed over the phone. I was in shock, but more sad about the hysterectomy.

The tumor had ruptured during surgery, spreading cancer cells. I spent 10 days in the hospital with complications like bowel blockage, an NG tube, and fainting during tests.

I didn’t eat for 12 days. It was the worst pain of my life.

Coping with fertility loss and IVF hope

Hayley and I decided to move forward with IVF. She offered to carry our child. We’re using my sister’s donor’s sperm, connecting both sides of our family.

I feel so connected — even though it’s not genetically my child, it still links our families.

We’re currently doing IVF treatments and preparing for a transfer soon.

Chemotherapy and adjusting to an ostomy

Once I healed, I started six rounds of chemo every three weeks. Chemo was easier than surgery. Chemo was more of a breeze for me because surgery was the worst pain I’ve ever felt.

After my second chemo, I developed a mysterious allergic reaction and spent five days in the hospital.

The toughest part was adjusting to my ostomy. I cried often trying to change it. My skin was raw, and I had to experiment with supplies. Eventually, I found what worked.

When my July scan came back clear, I sobbed with relief. Still, low-grade ovarian cancer carries a 70% chance of recurrence, especially since my tumor ruptured.

You’re filled with relief after a clear scan, but the fear of recurrence never fully disappears.

Living with the fear of recurrence

I get scans every six months, but I’m already feeling symptoms again. It’s hard not to wonder.

I stay busy, but sometimes fear creeps in. A friend’s cancer returned soon after chemo, and she couldn’t be treated. “That’s my worst fear.” Still, I stay outwardly positive, not fake; just hopeful.

I’m not faking it. Some people don’t know the tough stuff. They just see what I show on social media.

Navigating marriage and my mental health

We got married right before all this, and it changed everything. But I stay focused on positivity; our house, our dream of having kids, hiking, and traveling.

I see us making friends with the neighbors, traveling with my flight benefits, and raising kids. I’m not negative all the time; just real.

When dark thoughts come, Hayley gets me outside to hike or enjoy the sunshine. Being outdoors brings peace. I haven’t felt this much joy in a long time.

Ostomy reversal and helping others

I recently had my ostomy reversed and healed quickly. I was only in the hospital for two days. It felt incredible to no longer have the bag.

I’ve shared ostomy videos on TikTok — how to change it, which supplies helped. After my reversal, my grandmother got an ostomy, and I was able to help her.

That was full-circle. I could help her the way I wished someone had helped me.

I share my diagnosis on Instagram and TikTok because low-grade ovarian cancer is rare. When I was diagnosed, I searched for people like me online. I want to be that person for someone else.

I posted a lot during chemo, but less now. Hayley keeps telling me to post more, but I’m figuring out how to share again.

I want to use my story to educate and connect with others facing the same rare cancer.

What I want people to know

If you take one thing from my story, it’s this:

Take things day by day. Don’t get overwhelmed by the big picture. Focus on what you can do today.

And if you’re going through chemo, don’t feel bad about doing nothing, because your body literally can’t.

Thank you for sharing your story, Kacie!

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From Confusing Symptoms to Motherhood and Advocacy: Taja’s Polycythemia Vera Story

Post author By Katrina Villareal
Post date September 30, 2025
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September 30, 2025

From Confusing Symptoms to Motherhood and Advocacy: Taja’s Polycythemia Vera Story

Living with polycythemia vera, a rare myeloproliferative neoplasm, changed Taja’s path entirely. She was diagnosed in 2015 after fainting spells and abnormal lab results. For months, doctors dismissed her concerns, telling her she was too young for cancer. By tracking her own labs and bringing them to a clinical director, she finally received the correct diagnosis.

Interviewed by: Ruth Fein Revell
Edited by: Katrina Villareal

At the same time, Taja was caring for her grandmother with pancreatic cancer. Experiencing illness both as a patient and a caregiver shaped her belief that gratitude reveals hidden beauty, even during pain and uncertainty.

When told she could not safely become pregnant, Taja and her husband sought specialists and pursued IVF (in vitro fertilization) during the COVID pandemic. Their efforts succeeded and they welcomed their daughter, Miracle. Afterward, her disease accelerated and she underwent a bone marrow transplant with her father as the donor.

Though the transplant caused ongoing side effects, Taja chooses to use her voice through Miracle Circle Hands, an advocacy group that supports people with invisible illnesses. Her hope is to show that even in hardship, life can still offer light and connection.

Key Story Takeaways

Self-advocacy can be life-saving when symptoms are overlooked or dismissed.
Gratitude became Taja’s core practice, helping her find meaning through illness.
IVF gave her and her husband the chance to welcome their daughter, Miracle, despite doubts from doctors.
The bone marrow transplant brought difficult side effects but also a path forward.
Taja transformed her experience into advocacy, creating support networks for others with invisible illnesses.

Name: Taja S.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 23
Diagnosis:
- Polycythemia Vera (PV)
Symptoms:
- Chronic fatigue
- Fainting
- Stroke-like episodes
- Elevated hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelet count
Treatments:
- Emergency surgery for ruptured cyst & bowel obstruction
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation
- Bone marrow transplant

Thank you to PharmaEssentia for supporting our independent patient education program. The Patient Story retains full editorial control over all content.

This interview has been edited for clarity and length. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider to make informed treatment decisions.

The views and opinions expressed in this interview do not necessarily reflect those of The Patient Story.

Table of Contents

Meet Taja
When My First Symptoms Started
When Life Throws Everything at You at Once
Could I Start My Own Family?
Navigating My Pregnancy While Having Cancer
My Disease Progressed After Having Our Baby
Making the Decision to Do a Stem Cell Transplant
Life After a Stem Cell Transplant
My Message of Hope

Meet Taja

Friends and family describe me as compassionate, caring, and someone with a giving heart. I am very concerned about others, often less about myself.

When My First Symptoms Started

During my junior year of college, I was working two jobs. I was feeling off and not feeling like myself. I had multiple visits to emergency room doctors, primary care doctors, and a GI specialist (gastroenterologist).

The GI doctor wasn’t concerned about any gut issues, but he pulled up some lab work and he was extremely concerned about my red blood cells, my hemoglobin, my hematocrit, and my platelet count. At that time, I was working for the bone marrow transplant unit at a children’s hospital, which was pretty amazing and is why I’m where I am today.

My numbers were extremely high and very alarming, so I went to my primary care doctor and said, “I went to my GI doctor and he was extremely concerned.” But she blew me off, said that I was too young, and that there was nothing to worry about. She said it was probably an infection, so she would put me on antibiotics and I should be fine, and everything should level out. Afterward, I went back to my daily routine of going to school and work.

Then I had a car accident where I blacked out, which was alarming and extremely concerning. It wasn’t like I was deprived of sleep or it wasn’t my routine. At that point, I took it upon myself to do some research within my chart. I pulled some labs and got a visual of exactly what I was dealing with.

I was a health unit coordinator and doing a clinical rotation for social work. I brought my labs to the doctor, and then she looked at me and said, “You need to leave right now. You need to go see my husband,” who was also a hematologist. One of my coworkers took me straight to see him. He looked over my labs and gave me an idea that something was definitely going on, but he wasn’t quite sure what. But he drew some labs, did a full work-up and a week later, on February 14, 2015, I was diagnosed with polycythemia vera.

When Life Throws Everything at You at Once

My grandmother was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer around the time that I was diagnosed. At that time, her diagnosis was considered to be a death sentence. They told her that she had six months to live. But I took it upon myself to be there for her as much as I could, even while being in my last year of college and trying to be there for my family.

I was experiencing headaches and feeling fatigued. I couldn’t figure out what was wrong with me. I felt completely off. I was having fevers here and there. I was also having itchy skin and redness. Showers would bother me. I was getting extremely frustrated. But outside of that, I was so concerned about my grandmother and being there for her. I didn’t feel as if my family was on the same page, so I found myself overextending myself to make sure that I was there for my grandmother.

She was planning on retiring soon. One day, I noticed her eyes were yellow, so I asked her, “Why are your eyes yellow? Have you been at work all day and no one told you your eyes were yellow?” We were supposed to go to a family outing and I said, “No, we’re going to the emergency room.” Within that hour or two of being in the emergency room, she was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.

Could I Start My Own Family?

I was told that pregnancy wasn’t an option and that I shouldn’t get pregnant because it wasn’t safe for me. At the time, research studies were very limited, so I didn’t have much information on what would happen if I were to bear a child. I got a second opinion at the hospital where I was at the time and they told me the same thing.

I went to my hematologist at the time because my fiancé and I were discussing it with her. After all, we were concerned about having children and we both wanted to have children, but she was totally against it. She said, “No, I don’t advise it.” She was so concerned.

I don’t think there’s enough conversation around reproductive health when it comes to women who have either had cancer or have been through cancer treatment. There are options.

My husband and I are faith-based people and understand that God has the last say. We went and did our due diligence and research, so we went to a reproductive specialist to get a second opinion. They did share some concerns with me about having children, but it wasn’t impossible, so we went through the IVF process. They told us, “This usually doesn’t happen on the first try, so don’t be upset if it doesn’t happen for you,” and put an emphasis on that. Knowing who God is and my relationship with God and how I’ve always tried to align who I am with God’s purpose, I put it in His hands.

We started the IVF process and did it during the COVID-19 pandemic, so a lot of the things were done at home. My husband and I did the process together, which was pretty amazing. He did all my shots and went to all the appointments.

After they did the implantation of the embryo, two weeks later, I found out I was pregnant.

Navigating My Pregnancy While Having Cancer

What’s funny, which I thought was eye-opening, was that during my pregnancy, my condition became dormant. I had no symptoms of polycythemia vera. All my numbers were normalized, which was pretty cool. I would go in weekly for labs and everything was normal throughout my pregnancy. No issues at all. No signs of stroke and no headaches. All I had were the typical pregnancy symptoms.

First, they told me that I couldn’t have children. Then, I had her, but I went through a traumatic experience of having a cyst rupture while six weeks pregnant and in the midst of COVID. Then they told me that our child may not live through the procedure. Her making it to this world was the main reason we call her Miracle. And she’s every bit of her name.

My Disease Progressed After Having Our Baby

Right after having our daughter, Miracle, my disease went haywire. Weeks after giving birth, my numbers skyrocketed. My platelet count was in the 2 million range weekly. They were also doing plateletpheresis (a procedure where platelets are separated from whole blood and collected) weekly. At the start of the week, I would have plateletpheresis and I would go down to a normal range, but by the end of the week, my platelet count was back to 2 million.

At that point, life-threatening things could occur. My hematologist said, “There’s no other option outside of having a bone marrow transplant.” He wanted me to understand exactly what would happen.

They started the process of preparing me for transplant, but mentally, I thought that we should probably speed it up. They felt that as well because my platelets continued to be in the 2 million range and a high number of platelets can cause clotting. They said that my blood was like syrup. Whenever they would draw blood for my labs, it would clot in the tube, which created an issue for them as they needed to do my labs weekly and had to repeat draws over and over.

Making the Decision to Do a Stem Cell Transplant

I had no options other than a stem cell transplant. I wouldn’t wish it on anyone. Being a person of color, I had no donors. There were no matches.

I had my bone marrow transplant at 29 years old. Having a transplant at 29 came with many uncertainties, especially not knowing whether I would ever be able to have children. Thankfully, because we decided to do IVF, my eggs had already been retrieved and frozen. However, for many young women who undergo a bone marrow transplant, things move so quickly that there’s often no time to consider fertility preservation.

In my case, if I hadn’t had Miracle when I did, I wouldn’t have had the chance to freeze my eggs at all. My only choices were to proceed with the transplant or not survive. My experience taught me how crucial it is for women to take charge of their reproductive health early in life, because without that foresight, I may never have had the option to have children.

After I had my transplant, my body was thrown into menopause. My hormones are completely shot. I don’t have a sex drive whatsoever and I’m only 34, which is hard being married. Being a woman, it’s hard for your hormones to be off because you experience moodiness, hot flashes, and irregularities within your body. It’s extremely difficult. I’ve spent a lot of time researching different options, trying to understand what might work best or be most helpful for me.

I will be forever grateful that I was able to have the transplant and that I’m here, but it’s definitely stressful to be in this space now. The uncertainty I faced before the transplant — wondering whether I would survive or not — still weighs more heavily on me than where I am today. I’m extremely grateful that I did the transplant, but it has taken a toll on my mental health. I now try to raise awareness and help others understand the challenges that come with the experience.

Life After a Stem Cell Transplant

During my transplant, I had to go on disability. After a year, like many corporate organizations, they put someone else in my role. I eventually went on full disability and haven’t been able to return to work, as it’s been one challenge after another. However, following my heart and pursuing what I believe I was meant to do led me to create the organizations I now run, allowing me to give back to the community and find purpose again. While I’m a mother and a caregiver, I still feel a deep desire to do more because I believe my voice and experiences have meaning and need to be heard.

In my advocacy work, I focus on starting those uncomfortable but necessary conversations. Yes, the main goal is to save your life, but what happens after the transplant? What does life look like then? I believe those are the kinds of questions that need to be discussed from the very beginning.

From the research I’ve done, I’ve learned that many marriages end either during or after a transplant, which is partly because families and loved ones aren’t given enough information upfront about what to expect. Mental health support is so important from the very start. I truly believe it’s essential to find a therapist, counselor, or someone who can help you navigate those challenges — whether that means starting antidepressants or just having someone ready to talk about it.

During my transplant, I was on antidepressants and even then, it was very lonely. No one really prepares you for that part. You feel completely isolated because no one can truly understand what you’re going through except for another patient. But since you’re immunocompromised, you can’t even connect with them in person. I lost a lot of friends during that time; they just disappeared and no one warned me that might happen. Honestly, there should be a survey asking, “After your transplant, what did you go through? How did you feel? What could we do differently?”

Right now, I’m focusing on helping others in the community, not just myself. I previously had an organization called “Invisible to the Eye,” but I’m now in the process of creating “Miracles Circle Hands.” This new organization is all about building advocacy in the community, not only for those living with invisible illnesses, but also for seniors. I’m dedicated to speaking up for those who can’t advocate for themselves.

I named the organization after my daughter because she’s truly been our miracle. The “Circle Hands” part represents the idea of coming together — when you’re advocating for people, you’re out in the community connecting resources and joining hands to make sure patients, loved ones, or anyone in need gets the support they deserve. To make that possible, we have to create a safe space where people feel comfortable being vulnerable and sharing what they’re really going through. Unfortunately, many individuals are taken advantage of — whether because of illness or age — and I want to be someone who steps in to help. My goal is to show families, loved ones, and people in the community that they’re not alone, that someone truly cares, and that there are resources available to help them find their way.

My Message of Hope

My hope is simply to wake up each day. I hope to pour back into others and to do what My Father did for me: give someone else another chance at life, something I’ll always be grateful for. I remind myself every day that the more grateful your heart, the more beauty you see, and I truly live by that. Even though I face challenges, I’m thankful to still be here. The more gratitude I have, the bigger my heart feels, and the more I can give back to my community and serve others. I also want people to know that there is light at the end of the tunnel. Yes, there are ups and downs, but that’s part of life. And when you finally reach that mountaintop, you realize you’ve triumphed. I was told many times that I wouldn’t still be here, but I am.

Thank you for sharing your story, Taja!

Inspired by Taja's story?

Share your story, too!

Thank you to PharmaEssentia for supporting our independent patient education program. The Patient Story retains full editorial control over all content.

This interview has been edited for clarity and length. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider to make informed treatment decisions.

The views and opinions expressed in this interview do not necessarily reflect those of The Patient Story.

Candace’s Life Beyond Stage 3 Cervical Cancer

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date April 19, 2025
No Comments on Candace’s Life Beyond Stage 3 Cervical Cancer

April 19, 2025

Finding New Ways to Start a Family: Candace’s Life Beyond Stage 3C Cervical Cancer

Candace’s story is one of resilience, reflection, and redefining what family means. Diagnosed with stage 3 cervical cancer at just 25, while serving in the Air Force and navigating fertility treatments, her life took an unexpected turn. She had been managing polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) since she was 16, so symptoms like heavy bleeding and irregular periods were easy to dismiss. It wasn’t until an intrauterine insemination (IUI) procedure in 2022 that doctors noticed something amiss — her cervix appeared irritated and friable (overly sensitive and prone to irritation & bleeding). A biopsy post-dilation and curettage (D&C) confirmed the diagnosis.

Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Hearing the words, “You have cervical cancer,” was surreal for Candace. Still groggy from anesthesia, she laughed when the doctor said these words to her — an unexpected response fueled by shock and disbelief. But underneath that laughter was a whirlwind of emotions. The rapid progression from diagnosis to a radical hysterectomy left little time to process. Losing her fertility at such a young age was a profound grief, not just for the biological children she’d dreamed of but also for the part of her identity tied to motherhood.

Candace’s treatment journey for stage 3 cervical cancer was intense: multiple surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation (brachytherapy), and eventually immunotherapy. She went from balancing military duties post-chemo to confronting the harsh side effects that compounded with time, including nausea, fatigue, and hair loss.

Despite the physical toll of her stage 3c cervical cancer, Candace’s emotional and mental landscape was equally challenging. Cancer became an uninvited identity marker. Conversations often revolved around her illness rather than her passions or family. Determined to reclaim her narrative, she and her husband intentionally spoke openly about cancer, refusing to let it be the unspoken “C-word” in their lives.

Through all this, Candace’s hope remained anchored in her desire to have a family. Thanks to fertility preservation, she and her husband have two embryos frozen, with dreams of using a surrogate in the future. She also emphasizes the importance of fostering and adoption, showcasing how family can be beautifully diverse.

Candace’s support system, particularly within the Air Force, played a pivotal role. From understanding leadership to friends who became family, she felt embraced every step of the way. She advocates fiercely for seeking help, whether through therapy, friends, or acknowledging when it’s okay not to be okay.

Candace’s story isn’t defined by stage 3 cervical cancer. It’s shaped by courage, community, and the unwavering belief that life, even when altered, can still be meaningful and full. Watch her video to learn:

Why she insists that cancer doesn’t define her story.
Candace’s candid take on losing fertility at 25 but holding onto hopes of motherhood.
The surprising way Candace reacted upon hearing, “You have cancer.”
How the Air Force became Candace’s unexpected support system.

Name:
- Candace C.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 25
Diagnosis:
- Small Cell Cervical Cancer
Staging:
- Stage 3C
Symptoms:
- Heavy uterine bleeding
- Irregular menstruation
- Cervix seemed irritated and friable
Treatments:
- Surgery: radical hysterectomy
- Radiotherapy: brachytherapy
- Chemotherapy
- Immunotherapy

This interview has been edited for clarity and length. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider to make informed treatment decisions.

The views and opinions expressed in this interview do not necessarily reflect those of The Patient Story.

Thank you for sharing your story, Candace!

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Advocating for Yourself: Kacie’s Experience with Ovarian Cancer (Stage 3 Low-Grade Serous Ovarian Carcinoma)

My name is Kacie

Life before diagnosis: my family, work, and passions

My early symptoms were misdiagnosed

The moment everything changed

Coping with fertility loss and IVF hope

Chemotherapy and adjusting to an ostomy

Living with the fear of recurrence

Navigating marriage and my mental health

Ostomy reversal and helping others

My social media advocacy

What I want people to know

Inspired by Kacie's story?

More Low-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer Stories

From Confusing Symptoms to Motherhood and Advocacy: Taja’s Polycythemia Vera Story

Key Story Takeaways

Meet Taja

When My First Symptoms Started

When Life Throws Everything at You at Once

Could I Start My Own Family?

Navigating My Pregnancy While Having Cancer

My Disease Progressed After Having Our Baby

Making the Decision to Do a Stem Cell Transplant

Life After a Stem Cell Transplant

My Message of Hope

Inspired by Taja's story?

More Polycythemia Vera Stories

Finding New Ways to Start a Family: Candace’s Life Beyond Stage 3C Cervical Cancer

Inspired by Candace's story?

More Cervical Cancer Stories