Nicole, 42, from the Tampa Bay area in Florida, shares her experience battling ovarian cancer in 2022, 15 years after a battle with breast cancer.

Initially, Nicole experienced unexplained symptoms, including extreme abdominal pain, nausea, frequent urges to urinate without success, and chest pain. Despite undergoing multiple tests and consulting specialists, she was told by various doctors that nothing was wrong. Her symptoms worsened, leading her to experience pain while eating and feeling constantly full. After visiting the ER, she was dismissed with advice to take a stool softener, leaving her frustrated and in worsening pain.

It wasn’t until a routine visit to her ob-gyn that Nicole received a proper diagnosis. Her doctor recommended an ultrasound, which revealed a large mass on her omentum. Further tests led her to Moffitt Cancer Center, where it was discovered that the cancer had spread to areas near her clavicles and heart, explaining her chest pain.

Nicole began chemotherapy with carboplatin and paclitaxel, undergoing 7 treatments every 3 weeks. Having experienced chemotherapy for breast cancer in 2009, she noted advancements in treatment, such as the cold cap, which helped her keep her hair—a small but meaningful comfort during her second cancer battle.

Nicole’s chemotherapy sessions were successful in reducing her CA125 levels from an alarming 3,300 to much lower numbers after each treatment. After 4 sessions, scans showed that the cancer near her clavicles had disappeared, clearing her for surgery. In April 2023, she prepared to undergo a total hysterectomy. During the operation, her oncologist found that her cancer had spread to multiple organs, including her liver, diaphragm, and intestines, requiring a much more extensive surgery than anticipated. Despite the grueling recovery, including severe pain and breathing difficulties, Nicole pushed through.

Following surgery, Nicole completed her remaining chemotherapy sessions and began treatment with medications like Lynparza to prevent cancer recurrence. Despite a brief hospitalization due to low platelet levels, she has been cancer-free since July 2023.

Throughout her journey, Nicole reflects on the emotional toll the diagnosis took on her, recalling how she leaned on her husband for support but often found herself crying in private. She acknowledges the strength she found in herself and her gratitude for being able to be there for her family. In July, she and her husband finally shared her cancer journey with their children. Now, they actively participate in awareness activities, supporting both breast and ovarian cancer causes.

Nicole advises others to trust their instincts and not let doctors dismiss their concerns, emphasizing the importance of self-advocacy in her survival.