Tag: second opinion

Stage 2 Esophageal Cancer Changed My Life for the Better

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date July 18, 2025
No Comments on Stage 2 Esophageal Cancer Changed My Life for the Better

July 18, 2025

Stage 2 Esophageal Cancer Changed Mark’s Life for the Better

When Mark was diagnosed with stage 2 esophageal cancer in June 2024, his life took a scary, unexpected turn. But despite the initial shock, he was able to find a sense of peace amid all the chaos. That’s because he used his diagnosis as a catalyst to slow down and reflect on what truly mattered to him.

Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Before his diagnosis, Mark was thriving and healthy. He ran and worked out regularly and was healing from past emotional wounds. However, subtle, ominous signs started to emerge in February 2024. He started to experience difficulty swallowing, and initially dismissed this symptom as being due to dehydration.

He found it increasingly difficult to swallow, prompting him to seek medical advice. Doctors reassured him, though, due to his young, healthy appearance. It wasn’t until he was unable to swallow liquids that he rushed to the emergency room. A CT scan revealed a mass the size of a strawberry in his chest, and the biopsy confirmed stage 2 esophageal cancer.

Mark received the news alone in his hospital room. He was overwhelmed and faced a deluge of questions, for which he found few immediate answers. However, he didn’t succumb to his fear; he openly communicated with his children, answering their questions honestly and warmly.

Mark’s treatment plan for stage 2 esophageal cancer included four initial rounds of chemotherapy, surgery, and four additional chemo sessions. Initially, he followed his doctors’ advice without questioning it. But during a break before surgery, when he was able to reflect and research, he learned to self-advocate and make informed decisions about his treatment.

Armed with this knowledge and thinking of his personal health goals, he chose to undergo fewer of the additional chemo sessions. Chemotherapy was grueling. The side effects, like fatigue and nausea, were immense and took both a physical and emotional toll. But Mark was determined to stay positive and present for his family. He managed his stress by focusing on the present, taking each day at a time so he wouldn’t overwhelm himself by worrying about the future.

Mark urges others to realize that he didn’t just survive stage 2 esophageal cancer. He also learned to navigate his life: to live authentically, advocate for himself, and find meaning in adversity. He wants others to know that early detection, listening to one’s body, and seeking second opinions when necessary are all crucial.

Watch Mark’s video and delve into his story:

Discover how a simple swallowing issue led to a life-changing diagnosis.
Mark’s candid conversation with his kids will touch your heart.
See how Mark found peace and clarity through the chaos of cancer.
Discover the moment Mark realized he could advocate for his health.
Learn the stress management tips that helped Mark stay positive.

Name:
- Mark S.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 40
Diagnosis:
- Esophageal Cancer
Staging:
- Stage 2
Symptom:
- Difficulty swallowing that got progressively worse
Treatments:
- Chemotherapy
- Surgery: esophagectomy

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.

Inspired by Mark's story?

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Louis D., Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor (GIST)

Symptom: Feeling the need for constant urination
Treatments: Surgery to take out the tumor, maintenance chemotherapy (3 years)
...

Alyssa B., Stomach Cancer, Stage 4

Symptoms: Fatigue, elevated resting heart rate, heartburn, difficulty swallowing, weight loss
Treatments: Chemotherapy, surgery (gastrectomy & oophorectomy)
...

Brittany D., Stomach Cancer, Stage T1b

Symptoms: Choking suddenly while eating and attempting to speak, neck and right shoulder pain, neck tightness, trouble swallowing certain food items

Treatments: Surgeries (subtotal gastrectomy, D1 lymphadenectomy, gastric bypass)
...

Camilla C., Stomach Cancer, Stage 4

Symptoms: Issues swallowing, swollen gland in the neck

Treatments: Palliative chemotherapy was offered but declined, nutritional changes to support her comfort and energy, meditation and mindfulness practices, self-directed healing methods

...

Emily D., Stomach Cancer (Gastric Adenocarcinoma), Stage 4

Symptoms: Persistent postpartum stomachache, early satiety, difficulty swallowing, vomiting

Treatments: Chemotherapy, immunotherapy

...

Jeff S., Stomach Cancer, Stage 4

Symptoms: None; found during the evaluation process for kidney donation
Treatments: Surgery (partial gastrectomy & nephrectomy), chemotherapy (oxaliplatin & capecitabine), radiation
...

Lauren C., Stomach Cancer, Stage 1, CDH1+

Symptoms: Irregular bowel movement (stomach bile), extreme pain eating certain foods or drinking alcohol

Treatment: Total gastrectomy (surgery to remove whole stomach)
...

Ian D., Colon Cancer, Stage 3C

Symptoms: Fatigue, unusual blood test results during annual physical, blood in stool

Treatments: Surgery (partial colectomy), chemotherapy, clinical trial

Lauren G., Colon Cancer, Stage 4

Symptoms: Frequent urges to have bowel movements (up to 27x/day), incomplete evacuation, abdominal bloating
Treatments: Surgeries (colectomy, colostomy bag placement), chemotherapy

Jackson A., Colon Cancer, Stage 3

Symptom: Sharp abdominal pain
Treatment: Surgery (emergency transverse colectomy)

Jay W., Colon Cancer, Stage 4

Symptom: Occasional presence of blood in stool

Treatments: Chemotherapy, surgery (installation of port and liver infusion pump, colectomy, hepatectomy, liver ablation, removal of liver infusion pump)

Kelly C., Colon Cancer, Stage 4

Symptoms: Constipation, bloating, severe abdominal pain

Treatments: Surgeries (colectomy, colostomy, hepatectomy), chemotherapy

Marc Anthony S., Lynch Syndrome and Colon Cancer, Stage 2A

Symptoms: Blood in stool, severe constipation, persistent exhaustion, constantly feeling cold

Treatment: Surgeries (sigmoid colectomy, lymphadenectomy)

Monica D., Colorectal Cancer, Stage 1

Symptoms: None; caught at a routine colonoscopy
Treatment: Surgery (low anterior resection with temporary diverting ileostomy)

Edie H., Colorectal Cancer, Stage 3B

Symptom: Chronic constipation

Treatments: Chemotherapy, radiation, surgeries (lower anterior resection & temporary ileostomy)

Shayla L., Colorectal Cancer, Stage 4

Symptoms: Stomach sensitivity, food intolerances, exhaustion, blood in stool
Treatments: Chemotherapy, surgery (hepatectomy)

Tracy R., Colorectal Cancer, Stage 2B

Symptoms: Bloating and inflammation, heaviness in the rectum, intermittent rectal bleeding, fatigue
Treatments: Chemotherapy, radiation, surgery

Paula C., Colorectal Cancer, Stage 3

Symptoms: Painful gas, irregular bowel movements, blood in stool, anemia, severe pain, weight loss, fainting spells
Treatment: Surgery (tumor resection)

Nick S., Colorectal Cancer, Stage 4A

Symptoms: Change in bowel habits, size & consistency, blood in stool, abdominal pain, fatigue
Treatments: Surgery (sigmoid colectomy), chemotherapy (capecitabine, oxaliplatin), immunotherapy (bevacizumab, pembrolizumab)

Jeanine B., Rectal Cancer, Stage 3 (T3bN0M0)

Symptoms: Long history of bleeding that was blamed on hemorrhoids, pain in the tailbone, urgent need to use the restroom, unusually narrow stools, presence of mucus in stools, fatigue

Treatments: Chemotherapy, radiation therapy

Devon B., Rectal Cancer, Stage 4

Symptoms: Pain when trying to move bowels, increased frequency of bowel movements alternating with periods of constipation, passing mucus instead of feces, narrow stools

Treatments: Surgery (ostomy surgery), radiation therapy, chemotherapy

James K., Rectal Cancer, Stage 3C/4

Symptoms: Occasional rectal bleeding, increasing fatigue

Treatments: Chemoradiation, surgeries (coloanal pull-through, temporary ileostomy, ileostomy reversal, permanent colostomy), adjuvant chemotherapy

Denelle C., Rectal Cancer, Stage 3B

Symptoms: Irregular bowel movements, frequent rectal bleeding, sensation of incomplete evacuation

Treatment: Chemoradiation (oral chemotherapy and radiation therapy)

Scott M., Rectal Cancer, Stage 3

Symptom: Blood in stool
Treatments: Chemotherapy, surgery (ileostomy), radiation

Roshonda C., Rectal Cancer, Stage 4

Symptoms: Blood in stool, blood from rectum after intercourse, sensation of incomplete bowel movements
Treatments: Chemotherapy, surgery, radiation

Tags second opinion

Chemotherapy Clinical Trials Patient Stories Radiation Therapy Rhabdomyosarcoma Sarcoma Soft Tissue Sarcoma Surgery Treatments

Choosing Quality of Life in Her Rhabdomyosarcoma Treatment

Post author By Katrina Villareal
Post date June 2, 2025
No Comments on Choosing Quality of Life in Her Rhabdomyosarcoma Treatment

June 18, 2025

How Brittany Chooses Quality of Life in Her Stage 4 Rhabdomyosarcoma Treatment Decisions

Brittany received a life-altering diagnosis of stage 4 rhabdomyosarcoma in July 2024. What started as a small lump on her jaw quickly escalated into a whirlwind of hospital visits, major surgeries, and tough decisions. But throughout it all, Brittany has remained grounded in her values, fiercely committed to preserving her mental health, self-worth, and autonomy.

Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Katrina Villareal

When Brittany first noticed the lump, doctors thought it might be a cyst. But after it rapidly swelled during a biopsy, further testing confirmed it was cancer. That moment, she recalls, shattered her sense of normalcy. Getting that phone call was a deeply painful turning point. From there, she had to quickly learn how to advocate for herself.

Initially, Brittany’s first oncologist didn’t offer many choices. She sought a second opinion, and that’s when things began to shift. Despite being a young adult, Brittany learned that stage 4 rhabdomyosarcoma is often treated as a pediatric condition, which brought its own emotional weight. But the new oncologist gave her options, including fertility preservation, which was emotionally and physically taxing but important to her.

Brittany started chemotherapy and endured severe nausea, weight loss, and exhaustion, only to find out that the treatment wasn’t effective. In October, doctors removed the tumor surgically, replacing her jaw with titanium and using bone and muscle from her leg for reconstruction. She lost some facial movement in the process, a harsh reminder of the physical toll this diagnosis has taken.

Radiation therapy came next, damaging her salivary glands without improving her condition. Then the cancer spread to her lungs. After more chemo and even a clinical trial, Brittany made the decision that her treatments and their impact on daily life were stealing the quality of life she wanted. She bravely chose to stop her clinical trial treatments and take a more holistic approach, focusing on diet, lifestyle, and emotional healing. She is monitoring her lungs and scheduling a second surgery to work on her jaw.

Mental health has been the toughest part. Losing her physical strength, independence, and even pieces of her identity has been crushing at times. But Brittany has also grown immensely. With unwavering support from her boyfriend and his community, she’s learning to trust herself again, reclaiming her life on her own terms.

Brittany wants others to know they aren’t alone. Stage 4 rhabdomyosarcoma is terrifying, but fear doesn’t get to make the rules. You do. And she’s living proof that, even in the darkest hours, hope and strength can coexist.

Watch Brittany’s video to find out more about:

How Brittany found clarity and control after a devastating diagnosis
Why she has a titanium jaw
The emotional toll of stage 4 rhabdomyosarcoma
Why Brittany walked away from treatment to protect her quality of life
What it means to find your voice when the world tells you what to do

Name:
- Brittany C.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 22
Diagnosis:
- Rhabdomyosarcoma
Staging:
- Stage 4
Symptom:
- Small, sharp lump on the right side of the jaw
Treatments:
- Surgeries: tumor removal & planned corrective jaw surgery
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Clinical trial

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, Brittany!

Inspired by Brittany's story?

Share your story, too!

Alli’s Integrative Approach to Appendix Cancer (LAMN & PMP)

Post author By Katrina Villareal
Post date April 24, 2025
1 Comment on Alli’s Integrative Approach to Appendix Cancer (LAMN & PMP)

April 30, 2025

Joining Forces: Alli’s Integrative Approach to Appendix Cancer (LAMN & PMP)

Alli’s story is one of resilience, self-advocacy, and the power of holistic care. Diagnosed with a rare type of appendix cancer (low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm, or LAMN) that lead to a second rare cancer diagnosis — pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) — on Christmas Day in 2023, Alli faced a whirlwind of emotions and medical decisions, leading to personal growth. Living in Perth, Australia, but originally from the UK, she navigated this challenging time far from her extended family. Yet, through it all, she found a new purpose, deeper connections, and a fresh appreciation for life.

Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Katrina Villareal

Looking back, Alli realizes she had symptoms for years — persistent bloating, constipation, severe abdominal pain, unexplained weight fluctuations — but they were often dismissed. As a nurse practitioner, she knew her body and pushed for answers, yet traditional scans failed to detect her low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm (LAMN) with pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP). Even after relocating to a different state, her symptoms intensified. It wasn’t until she demanded another scan in December 2023 that doctors discovered a suspicious fluid-filled mass. Days later, she found herself in emergency surgery.

Waking up from surgery, Alli was told her appendix had ruptured and cancer had spread throughout her abdominal cavity, affecting multiple organs. The news was devastating, but Alli’s medical background kicked in and she immediately started researching her options. With only five surgeons in Australia performing the complex peritonectomy surgery needed for her condition, she faced long wait times. Instead of succumbing to feelings of powerlessness, Alli took control of her health, exploring integrative treatments.

Alli traveled to Thailand where she underwent low-dose chemotherapy, hyperthermia, and high-dose vitamin infusions. This integrative treatment approach helped her reduce inflammation and tumor burden, making her stronger for the major surgery ahead. When the time came, Alli flew to Melbourne for the peritonectomy — a grueling 15-hour procedure. Waking up, she was overwhelmed with gratitude. The surgeons believed they had removed all visible cancer.

However, the road to recovery wasn’t easy. Just weeks later, Alli was hospitalized with a bowel obstruction and was told she was too high-risk for another surgery. She managed to avoid emergency intervention, but the experience was one of the most emotionally taxing of her life. Through holistic approaches and self-care, she has since managed her health while embracing a renewed sense of purpose.

Alli now dedicates herself to raising awareness about appendix cancer, self-advocacy in medical settings, and the importance of seeking second opinions. She emphasizes that no one should settle for a single diagnosis without exploring all options. Through social media, she provides hope to others facing cancer, proving that a diagnosis doesn’t define you — it’s how you approach it that matters. Every day, she wakes up grateful for life, her family, and the strength she’s built along the way.

Watch Alli’s story to find out more about:

How Alli’s medical background helped her fight for a proper diagnosis.
Why she chose a combination of alternative and traditional treatments before major surgery.
The mental and emotional impact of possibly dying young, like her mother.
The power of community and self-advocacy in navigating a rare cancer diagnosis.

Name: Alli B.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 45
Diagnosis:
- Appendix cancer – also known as Low-Grade Appendiceal Mucinous Neoplasm (LAMN) with Pseudomyxoma Peritonei (PMP)
Symptoms:
- Bloating
- Severe constipation for over a year
- Severe abdominal pain
- Stabbing pains over gallbladder area
- Inability to walk or stand due to abdominal pain
- Unexplained sharp weight gain and loss
Treatments:
- Chemotherapy
- Surgeries: appendectomy, peritonectomy
- Integrative cancer care

As described by the Mayo Clinic regarding complementary and integrative therapy: treatments promoted in integrative medicine are not substitutes for conventional medical care. They should be used along with standard medical treatment.

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, Alli!

Inspired by Alli's story?

Share your story, too!

A Second Opinion Changed Joel’s Grade 2 Myxofibrosarcoma Treatment Plan

Post author By Katrina Villareal
Post date April 7, 2025
No Comments on A Second Opinion Changed Joel’s Grade 2 Myxofibrosarcoma Treatment Plan

Why Getting a Second Opinion Changed Joel’s Grade 2 Myxofibrosarcoma Treatment Plan

Joel has always valued family, faith, and community. Married for 31 years with a daughter and several foster children, he never imagined cancer would be part of his life. However, in a life-changing moment, in December 2024, at age 57, he was diagnosed with a grade 2 myxofibrosarcoma, a rare soft tissue cancer.

Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Katrina Villareal

A small lump on his shin seemed minor at first, and he initially dismissed it as a fatty growth. However, over several months, it grew larger, prompting him to visit his doctor. As a precaution, though the doctor believed it was likely benign, they ordered tests to rule out any serious issues. An ultrasound came back inconclusive, leading to an MRI, which heightened concerns. Seeking a second opinion, Joel consulted a friend who connected him with a sarcoma specialist at the University of Iowa. Within hours, Joel received a call confirming that he had myxofibrosarcoma.

The uncertainty of his diagnosis was overwhelming. Not knowing whether he had months or years left to live was a heavy burden. However, after a biopsy confirmed it was grade 2 myxofibrosarcoma and contained, he felt a sense of relief. His doctor reassured him that they could treat his condition and manage it if it recurred.

Joel’s grade 2 myxofibrosarcoma treatment plan consists of radiation therapy, which he undergoes daily for a few minutes. Though he hasn’t experienced significant side effects yet, doctors have advised him that he may develop skin irritation in later weeks. After radiation, surgeons will remove the tumor and perform a skin graft and muscle repositioning to help the area heal properly.

Despite these medical interventions, Joel remains physically strong, continuing his workouts and daily routine without pain. Emotionally, Joel finds strength in his faith, family, and supportive community. His wife has been his rock and his close-knit group of friends offers him unwavering encouragement. His belief in God provides reassurance, removing the fear of death and allowing him to focus on living fully.

Beyond his experience with grade 2 myxofibrosarcoma, Joel emphasizes the importance of seeking medical advice early, especially for men who often downplay health concerns. He considers how his initial reluctance to get checked could have caused worse outcomes. Now, he encourages others to listen to their bodies and take proactive steps.

His outlook on life has shifted, centering on gratitude and using his experience to uplift others. He firmly believes in leveraging crises to bring awareness, comfort, and inspiration to those in need, rather than letting them go to waste. Instead of letting cancer define him, Joel is choosing to make a difference, reminding others that hope and purpose can thrive even in the face of adversity.

Name:
- Joel S.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 57
Diagnosis:
- Myxofibrosarcoma
Grade:
- Grade 2
Symptom:
- Lump on shin (gradual growth over several months)
Treatments:
- Radiation therapy
- Surgery: tumor removal & reconstruction of affected area

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, Joel!

Inspired by Joel's story?

Share your story, too!

Stage 2 Esophageal Cancer Changed Mark’s Life for the Better

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