Tag: stage 4

How Stage 4 Appendix Cancer Transformed Erica’s Life

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date May 1, 2025
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May 1, 2025

How Stage 4B Appendix Cancer Transformed Erica’s Life

Erica’s story is one of resilience, self-discovery, and perspective shifts. When she was diagnosed with stage 4B appendix cancer in 2021, her life took a turn she never anticipated. Having moved to a different state during the peak of COVID-19 as a new single mom, she channeled her energy into rigorous workouts, juggling a new job she loved, and raising her two kids. Despite leading what appeared to be a healthy and active lifestyle, subtle signs, like fatigue, sharp pain in her side, and unusual early fullness while eating, were easy to dismiss.

Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Erica’s stage 4B appendix cancer diagnosis came unexpectedly, during what was supposed to be a routine hysterectomy. Waking up from anesthesia to hear the stunning statement, “We think you have cancer,” was surreal, a moment etched in her memory. Despite being asymptomatic for the most part, Erica’s intuition had nudged her toward surgery — an inner voice that, in hindsight, was a lifesaver.

Navigating stage 4B appendix cancer hasn’t been easy. Erica underwent extensive treatments, including various surgeries, hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC), which involved administering chemotherapy directly into the abdominal cavity, and additional grueling rounds of chemotherapy. The side effects were intense; the fatigue was unlike anything she’d ever known — not just physical exhaustion but a deep, pervasive weariness. Yet, she persisted, returning to work after treatments, determined to reclaim normalcy. However, the cancer’s return was a harsh reminder that survivorship is complex.

Mental health has been a cornerstone of Erica’s experience. She’s transparent about the emotional toll: grappling with the fear of limited time, making tough decisions about her children’s future, and balancing hope with reality. Despite moments of feeling robbed of her spirit, she embraces the blessings cancer has brought, namely, the courage to say yes to new experiences, deeper self-reflection, and meaningful connections with loved ones.

Erica’s message is powerful: choices exist, even when it feels like they don’t. Changing her perspective has been transformative, finding joy in small victories and peace in acceptance. She encourages others to live fully, embrace vulnerability, and rest when needed. Her story isn’t just about battling stage 4B appendix cancer; it’s about living authentically, finding strength in unexpected places, and advocating for mental health awareness alongside rare cancer understanding.

Watch Erica’s video and learn more about:

How her intuition uncovered a rare cancer diagnosis.
How subtle and easily brushed-off signs led to a life-changing discovery.
The unexpected blessings Erica found through stage 4B appendix cancer.
What survivorship really looks like beyond the diagnosis.
Choosing joy: Erica’s journey of resilience and rare cancer awareness.

Name:
- Erica R.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 48
Diagnosis:
- Appendix Cancer
Staging:
- Stage 4B
Symptoms:
- Bloating
- Sharp pain in the side
- Fatigue
- Vomiting after one alcoholic drink
- Early satiety (feeling full)
Treatments:
- Surgeries: cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC)
- Chemotherapy

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

Thank you for sharing your story, Erica!

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Gleason 9, Stage 4 Prostate Cancer: John’s Path to Living Well

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date May 1, 2025
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May 1, 2025

Diagnosed with Gleason 9, Stage 4 Prostate Cancer: John’s Blueprint for Living Well

John’s life took an unexpected turn in 2021 when he was diagnosed with Gleason score 9, stage 4 prostate cancer (stage 4A). His experience has been anything but easy, yet his story is packed with lessons on resilience, hope, and the power of proactive health management.

Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

John’s signs that something was amiss were nocturia (frequent nighttime urination) and a weak stream of urine. Despite visiting his doctor and undergoing a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test, his results were misleading due to a medication called finasteride, commonly used for hair loss. Unfortunately, neither he nor his regular doctor realized that the PSA levels should have been doubled for accurate interpretation. This oversight delayed his diagnosis and, as they realized later, the cancer spread beyond his prostate in the interim.

After a biopsy of his prostate, John received the challenging diagnosis of Gleason score 9, stage 4A prostate cancer along with the revelation of positive margins (cancer left even after surgery), lymph node involvement, and other aggressive cancer indicators. But instead of dwelling on “Why me?”, he shifted his mindset to, “What can I do about it?” This pivot led him to embrace what he calls TIDES: treatment, inspiration, diet, exercise, and sleep, as his personal blueprint to slow down the progression of prostate cancer.

John underwent surgery, hormone therapy (androgen deprivation therapy or ADT), and radiation. These treatments came with intense side effects — hot flashes, joint issues, urinary incontinence, and even the onset of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a rare disease affecting the nerves linking the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. Yet, he managed to find new meaning in life despite these challenges. His secret? Focusing on what he could control.

John took a comprehensive approach to navigating his life after diagnosis. Optimizing his diet became a priority. He moved towards plant-based foods, inspired by studies showing that healthier lifestyles reduce prostate cancer mortality risk significantly. Exercise was another key element, helping him manage weight changes due to decreased metabolism from ADT. John also prioritized sleep and mental health, practicing daily gratitude, and finding joy in life’s simplest moments.

Now in remission, John is more determined than ever. His message to others facing stage 4 prostate cancer is simple, yet powerful: don’t let the fear of side effects stop you from seeking treatment. Life after a diagnosis isn’t over; it’s just different and can still be fulfilling.

Watch John’s video to find out about:

How he found hope after his stage 4 prostate cancer diagnosis.
The five lifestyle changes John swears by to manage his health.
Why he says life is still great after a tough cancer experience.
The overlooked PSA test factor that delayed John’s diagnosis.
His secret weapon against cancer blues.

Name:
- John B.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 58
Diagnosis:
- Prostate Cancer
Staging:
- Stage 4A
Gleason Score:
- Gleason 9
Symptoms:
- Nocturia (frequent urination at night)
- Weak stream of urine
Treatments:
- Surgery: prostatectomy
- Hormone therapy: androgen deprivation therapy (ADT)
- Radiation

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

Thank you for sharing your story, John!

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Janelle’s Stage 4 Adrenal Cancer Story of Connection

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date April 30, 2025
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April 30, 2025

Janelle’s Stage 4 Adrenal Cancer Story: The Power of Persistence and Connection

Janelle is a spirited 42-year-old whose resilience shines through despite her rare diagnosis of stage 4 adrenal cancer. Her experience underscores the importance of self-advocacy, mental health, and the power of community support.

Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Janelle’s health concerns began in 2013 with an unusual thirst — she was drinking as much as 300 oz of water daily. Despite numerous doctor visits, misdiagnoses, being gaslit, and even being dismissed as “attention-seeking,” her persistence never wavered. She navigated through multiple endocrinologists until her trusted primary care physician took her symptoms seriously. In 2021, a sudden sharp pain from a kidney stone led to a CT scan, revealing a four-centimeter mass on her adrenal gland — a life-saving discovery hidden behind unexpected agony.

The diagnosis? Stage 3 adrenal cancer (adrenocortical carcinoma), which later advanced to stage 4 adrenal cancer after it was found to have spread to Janelle’s lungs. The emotional weight of the news, compounded by family health crises and feelings of isolation, was overwhelming. But she found solace in connecting with others across the globe facing the same rare cancer. These connections became her anchor, offering an invaluable sense of belonging in a sea of uncertainty.

With a treatment plan involving an oral chemotherapy medicine derived from a compound as controversial as its history (it’s related to the banned pesticide DDT), Janelle faces harsh side effects: relentless fatigue, nausea, and more. Despite these challenges, her mental fortitude remains strong. She copes with the invisible nature of her illness, combating not just stage 4 adrenal cancer but also the misconceptions of those around her. Her husband’s unwavering support and the thought of her beloved niece fuel her determination.

Janelle’s message is clear: self-advocacy is non-negotiable. Her story is a testament to the importance of trusting your instincts, pushing for answers, and never settling when it comes to your health.

Watch Janelle’s video and find out more about:

How a kidney stone turned out to be the unexpected hero of her life.
The rare cancer community that spans continents and hearts.
How Janelle’s persistence saw her through, even though she kept getting dismissed by doctors.
The unseen battles and silent strength that are part and parcel of living with stage 4 adrenal cancer.
The everyday heroes behind Janelle’s fight — family, friends, and fierce self-advocacy.

Name:
- Janelle C.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 38
Diagnosis:
- Adrenal Cancer (Adrenocortical Carcinoma)
Staging:
- Stage 4
Symptoms:
- Excessive thirst and water intake
- Interrupted sleep due to waking to drink and urinate
- Suspicious weight gain despite working out
Treatments:
- Surgeries: adrenalectomy, nephrectomy
- Oral chemotherapy
- Steroids

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

Thank you for sharing your story, Janelle!

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Life After Remission: Laura’s Stage 4 Hodgkin Lymphoma Story

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date April 29, 2025
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April 29, 2025

Life After Remission: Laura’s Stage 4 Hodgkin Lymphoma Story

When Laura first walked into her doctor’s office in 2017, she was just looking for relief from a stubborn cough. A quick prescription was all she expected. Instead, she was swept into a whirlwind of tests, appointments, and life-altering news. That cough turned out to be a sign of something far more serious: stage 4 Hodgkin lymphoma.

Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

At 40, Laura considered herself the epitome of health — a vegetarian, a yoga enthusiast, and someone who rarely visited the doctor. Hearing the word “cancer” was surreal, and the shock only deepened when she discovered it had spread to both her lungs. Initially misdiagnosed as lung cancer, the prospect of terminal illness terrified Laura. But after a lung biopsy and a mediastinoscopy, the doctors confirmed it was stage 4 Hodgkin lymphoma — which is treatable and potentially curable, even in its advanced stage.

Navigating the medical world was like learning a new language. From meeting oncologists to enduring countless tests, Laura found herself juggling not just the disease but also the bureaucratic hurdles of insurance and the financial challenges of cancer. Imagine battling a $100,000 medical bill while undergoing cancer treatment like Laura did. Eventually, she won her insurance appeals, but these challenges highlighted the critical need for self-advocacy.

Treatment for stage 4 Hodgkin lymphoma was no picnic. Laura endured six months of chemotherapy followed by a month of radiation. She lost her hair — not just on her head but everywhere, a detail that surprised her. Fortunately, she wasn’t plagued by the nausea often depicted in media, likely thanks to effective anti-nausea meds. However, mouth sores and extreme fatigue became familiar companions.

Post-treatment life brought its own set of emotional and physical adjustments. While declared in remission in 2018, Laura grappled with the invisible scars left by stage 4 Hodgkin lymphoma. She described the strange void after her regular oncologist visits ended, likening it to new parents leaving the hospital with their first child — uncertain, overwhelmed, and without a manual.

Despite lingering side effects like neuropathy and the emotional weight of past battles, Laura’s outlook remains empowering. She’s passionate about survivorship and emphasizes that healing isn’t just physical. It’s about finding support, whether through online communities or fellow survivors. Laura’s advice? You’re not alone, and you’re definitely not your disease.

Watch Laura’s video to find out more about:

What started as a cough that later led to life-changing news.
Fighting a $100,000 medical bill while undergoing treatment.
Why post-cancer life isn’t ‘back to normal’ — she shares her unexpected challenges.
What Laura wishes she had known before chemo, and what she wants every patient to know.

Name:
- Laura P.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 40
Diagnosis:
- Hodgkin Lymphoma
Staging:
- Stage 4
Symptom:
- Nagging cough
Treatments:
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation

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

Thank you for sharing your story, Laura!

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Life Despite Stage 4 Colon Cancer: Albita’s Honest, Hopeful Story

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date April 25, 2025
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April 25, 2025

Living Fully with Stage 4 Colon Cancer: Albita’s Honest, Hopeful Story

When vibrant Albita noticed symptoms like stomach pain and blood in her stool back in 2019, she brushed them off, attributing them to stress, diet, and an active lifestyle. It wasn’t until 2024, at the age of 32, that she received the life-altering diagnosis: stage 4 colon cancer.

Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Albita’s path to diagnosis was filled with delays due to fear, financial concerns, and misattribution of symptoms to conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). She experienced persistent weight gain in her midsection, fatigue, and worsening digestive issues. Despite hesitation, she eventually scheduled a colonoscopy, which revealed a tumor. Further scans showed metastases in her liver, confirming stage 4 colon cancer.

Albita’s reaction was a mix of shock and an odd sense of relief. Finally, there was a name for the mysterious health issues she had been facing. As a pharmacy technician, she understood medical jargon but found the reality of cancer overwhelming. Yet, her oncologist offered hope, emphasizing that stage 4 isn’t hopeless. Treatments are available, and many people continue to live full lives.

Albita underwent multiple treatments, including several rounds of chemotherapy, liver resections, and a colon resection with a hysterectomy. That’s when Stella entered her life — her ileostomy, which she’s learned to embrace. Living with an ileostomy has been an adjustment, reshaping her relationship with food, body image, and self-care. She now pays attention to her hydration, nutrient intake, and manages the daily logistics of having a stoma.

Despite the physical toll and side effects of her treatments — fatigue, brain fog, hair loss, and skin issues — Albita’s mindset remains her strongest asset. She acknowledges grief for the life she had before but finds strength in her growth. “I feel stronger as a human being,” she shares, highlighting how facing stage 4 colon cancer has revealed an inner resilience she never knew she had.

Albita’s message to others is clear: listen to your body. Don’t dismiss symptoms like persistent stomach pain, unusual weight changes, or blood in your stool. Early detection can make a significant difference. She also advocates for mental health support, therapy, and maintaining a positive mental attitude, which helps her navigate the emotional waves of living with cancer.

Watch Albita’s video to find out more about:

How important it is to listen to our bodies.
How a diagnosis of stage 4 colon cancer changed everything — and nothing — for her.
Albita’s powerful take on living with an ileostomy.
Why she named her stoma Stella, and other inspiring insights.
The symptoms Albita initially ignored that you shouldn’t.

Name:
- Albita G.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 32
Diagnosis:
- Colon Cancer
Staging:
- Stage 4
Symptoms:
- Blood in stool
- Pain during defecation
- Constant constipation
- Steady weight gain in the midsection despite exercising
Treatments:
- Surgeries: colectomy, hepatectomy, hysterectomy
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation

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

Thank you for sharing your story, Albita!

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Emily’s Incurable Stage 4 Stomach Cancer

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date April 21, 2025
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April 21, 2025

Controlling What She Can: Emily Navigates Incurable Stage 4 Stomach Cancer

Emily, a former Olympic athlete, was diagnosed with stage 4 stomach cancer (gastric adenocarcinoma) in July 2024. Her health concerns began shortly after giving birth to her son in November 2023. Initially, she experienced what seemed like postpartum-related stomach aches, which progressed to early fullness, unexplained weight loss, and vomiting without nausea. Despite several medical consultations and tests — including endoscopies and biopsies that initially came back negative — Emily trusted her instincts when something didn’t sit right.

Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Determined to find answers, Emily sought a second opinion that finally led to the correct diagnosis of stage 4 stomach cancer. While the news was devastating, her response was both inspiring and empowering. She shifted her focus to what she could control — her mindset, her health, and the time she spends with her family. Despite being told her cancer was incurable, Emily holds onto hope, continually reinforcing positivity through daily affirmations and self-belief.

Exercise remains Emily’s anchor. Drawing from her athletic background, she incorporates physical activity into her routine — not to train for competitions, but to maintain her strength during treatments. Running, skiing, lifting weights, and even simple walks help her feel like herself. This connection to her physical well-being supports her mental health, creating a cycle of resilience and positivity.

Emily also channels her energy into meaningful projects for her family. She writes heartfelt letters for her son and compiles a cookbook for her husband, ensuring her presence remains strong in their lives. She embraces integrative approaches to health, combining traditional treatments like chemotherapy and immunotherapy with lifestyle habits that nurture her body and spirit.

While navigating the emotional weight of her stage 4 stomach cancer diagnosis, Emily’s perspective is profoundly moving. She acknowledges the fear but refuses to let it define her. She often reminds herself, “I’m a sample of one,” choosing to see statistics as impersonal numbers that don’t capture individual possibilities. Emily’s story isn’t just about living with stage 4 stomach cancer — it’s about living fully, with intention and love.

Watch Emily’s video and find out about:

How her competitive mindset fuels her life with stage 4 stomach cancer.
The symptom Emily thought was postpartum-related, but ended up changing her life.
How her intuition led to a diagnosis that doctors initially missed.
From chemotherapy to cookbooks: Emily’s heartfelt way of leaving a legacy.
Why Emily believes statistics don’t define her story and how that belief empowers her.

Name:
- Emily D.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 35
Diagnosis:
- Stomach Cancer (Gastric Adenocarcinoma)
Staging:
- Stage 4
Symptoms:
- Persistent postpartum stomachache
- Early satiety
- Difficulty swallowing
- Vomiting
Treatments:
- Chemotherapy
- Immunotherapy

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

Thank you for sharing your story, Emily!

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Redefining Life After Stage 4B Hodgkin Lymphoma: Dilan’s Story

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date April 7, 2025
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April 7, 2025

How Stage 4B Hodgkin Lymphoma has Helped Redefine Dilan’s Life

Dilan was living a happy life with his wife and young daughter when he received news that turned his world upside down. In March 2015 — ironically, on his 25th birthday — he was diagnosed with stage 4B Hodgkin lymphoma. What started as night sweats, intense fatigue, itchy skin, and lumps on his neck and in his armpit soon led to a life-altering visit to the doctor. That’s when he first saw the words “cancer referral form” linked to his name.

Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Dilan’s diagnosis touched off a whirlwind of tests — blood work, biopsies, and scans — leading to the confirmation of stage 4B Hodgkin lymphoma, the cancer having already spread to his lungs. But the physical symptoms weren’t the hardest part. The psychological weight of it all was what overwhelmed him. Dilan recalls the deafening silence after hearing the word “cancer,” a moment filled with blank thoughts and creeping fears about mortality, identity, and purpose.

Chemotherapy became Dilan’s primary treatment, stretched over six grueling months. The side effects were brutal. Hair loss hit the hardest — he lost everything from his head hair to his eyelashes, eyebrows, and body hair, too. It wasn’t just about appearance; it felt like losing a part of who he was. His confidence plummeted, and it took a toll on his mental health. Once outgoing, he began hiding behind hats and sunglasses, avoiding social interactions. It wasn’t vanity; it was grappling with an identity that felt stripped bare.

Yet amidst his stage 4B Hodgkin lymphoma experience, Dilan discovered resilience. He turned inward, embracing meditation, breathwork, and journaling, practices that he continues today. He rekindled his old love for sketching and found solace in simple creative acts. These mental health tools anchored him during moments of anxiety, especially when he faced fears of recurrence.

Dilan’s treatment was successful; his stage 4B Hodgkin lymphoma is now in remission. But his story isn’t just about surviving cancer — it’s about redefining life beyond diagnosis. He candidly admits that cancer, paradoxically, became a catalyst for transformation. It taught him to value life, cherish small moments, and live authentically. His message is clear: cancer doesn’t have to overshadow your existence. It can be a reminder of life’s fragility and the strength within us all.

Watch the video to learn from Dilan about:

How he found strength in unexpected places after his cancer diagnosis.
What to do when hair loss feels like losing a piece of yourself.
His powerful reflections on going from diagnosis on his birthday to redefining life.
How cancer, strangely enough, changed his life for the better.

Name:
- Dilan P.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 25
Diagnosis:
- Hodgkin Lymphoma
Staging:
- Stage 4B
Symptoms:
- Night sweats
- Appearance of lumps on the neck and in the armpit
- Severe itching
- Fatigue
Treatment:
- Chemotherapy

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

Thank you for sharing your story, Dilan!

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Young Mom Melanie’s Stage 4 Nasal Squamous Cell Cancer

Post author By Katrina Villareal
Post date April 7, 2025
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April 7, 2025

Facing Cancer as a Young Mom: Melanie’s Stage 4 Nasal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Story

Despite the excitement of expecting her first child, Melanie faced a life-altering diagnosis at 30 weeks pregnant: nasal squamous cell carcinoma. Her symptoms began subtly, with nosebleeds, sinus pressure, and congestion, all of which she attributed to pregnancy. However, when Melanie’s left eye started to protrude, she sought medical attention. An ENT attempted to examine her nasal cavity but found a mass blocking the scope. Urged to seek emergency care, she underwent an MRI and biopsy, confirming the presence of cancer.

Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Katrina Villareal

The stage 4 nasal squamous cell carcinoma diagnosis brought overwhelming fear and uncertainty. Melanie worried about being there for her child and the possibility of someone else raising her. She had to make treatment decisions quickly. Because the tumor had grown into critical areas, immediate surgery was not an option. Instead, doctors recommended chemotherapy, which she would begin after giving birth. Melanie’s hopes for a natural birth shifted when complications led to an emergency C-section. The moment her daughter was born brought a mix of relief and profound love. She held her baby for a day before beginning chemotherapy in the hospital.

Chemotherapy provided initial success, shrinking the tumor in her nasal cavity and allowing Melanie to breathe more easily. However, the tumor in her eye orbit remained unchanged due to poor blood flow in that area. With no clear margins for radiation, doctors advised surgical removal of her left eye and surrounding structures before proceeding with further treatment. The first surgery replaced lost tissue using a skin flap from her arm, followed by radiation therapy. Radiation, unexpectedly, was more physically challenging than chemotherapy, leaving her exhausted and struggling to eat. Despite this, she avoided a feeding tube and completed treatment.

Beyond the physical toll, cancer reshaped Melanie’s mental and emotional well-being. The loss of breastfeeding and the shift in parental roles meant that her husband had to take on responsibilities that they hadn’t anticipated. He became the primary caregiver, ensuring she had the rest needed for recovery. Melanie found solace in therapy, initially struggling to connect with traditional therapists who lacked medical experience. A hospital-based therapist and support groups provided better understanding, though finding peers in similar circumstances proved difficult due to her young age.

Motherhood took an unexpected form, but Melanie embraced every moment with gratitude. Nasal squamous cell carcinoma altered her body, but she is focused on regaining strength and adjusting to her new normal. Regular check-ups and hyperbaric oxygen therapy support her ongoing healing. Though life will be different, Melanie remains hopeful, emphasizing that even in the darkest moments, happiness can be found. Her experience underscores the importance of mental health support, a strong community, and finding purpose beyond the diagnosis.

Name: Melanie S.
Diagnosis:
- Nasal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Staging:
- Stage 4
Mutation:
- p16 positive (HPV-related)
Symptoms:
- Nosebleeds
- Sinus pressure
- Congestion
- Eye protrusion
Treatments:
- Chemotherapy
- Surgeries: orbital exenteration (left eye removal) & reconstructive flap surgery
- Radiation therapy: external beam radiation therapy & proton therapy
- Hyperbaric oxygen therapy

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

Thank you for sharing your story, Melanie!

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Stage 4 Mediastinal Paraganglioma Can’t Stop Jonathan

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date April 7, 2025
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April 7, 2025

Stage 4 Mediastinal Paraganglioma Can’t Stop Jonathan from Living His Life

Jonathan has stage 4 mediastinal paraganglioma, a rare neuroendocrine cancer. His experience is a testament to resilience, purpose, and the power of living fully, even with metastatic cancer. A dedicated lung transplant nurse practitioner, devoted husband, and proud father, he never let his diagnosis define him. Instead, he’s turned it into a mission to inspire, educate, and give back.

Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

In 2021, while training for the Ironman World Championships, Jonathan started experiencing troubling symptoms — shortness of breath, facial swelling, and dizzy spells. As an experienced healthcare professional, he suspected something serious. A trip to the emergency room confirmed his fears: stage 4 mediastinal paraganglioma, a rare cancer that had already spread throughout his body.

But Jonathan didn’t crumble under the weight of his diagnosis. Instead, he approached it with the mindset of a clinician and an athlete — problem-solving, strategizing, and pushing forward. His stage 4 mediastinal paraganglioma treatment plan included radiation to shrink the primary tumor near his heart, targeted therapy to slow the cancer’s spread, and surgeries to stabilize his spine after painful fractures. Despite the challenges, he remained active, racing in marathons and triathlons and even completing the Ironman World Championship in 2023, an achievement that proved that stage 4 cancer is not a death sentence.

Jonathan refuses to let stage 4 mediastinal paraganglioma dictate his life. He returned to his work in lung transplantation, finding deeper connections with his patients who also face mortality. His focus on sports helps him stay mentally strong in the face of his challenges. He also started giving back by fundraising for cancer patients and their families, hosting JP’s Backyard Ultra, an annual ultra-marathon that has raised thousands for those in need.

Through it all, Jonathan has embraced gratitude, acceptance, and purpose. His message is clear: cancer is not the end — it’s a call to live with intention, advocate for oneself, and find ways to give back. For him, being a “force for good” starts with kindness to oneself and extends to uplifting others. His story is not just about surviving but about thriving, making an impact, and redefining what it means to live with cancer.

Watch the video to learn from Jonathan about:

How he crossed the Ironman finish line after his stage 4 diagnosis.
Why he says stage 4 cancer is not a death sentence.
How he turned a rare cancer diagnosis into a mission to help others.
From marathons to fundraising, how he’s proving life doesn’t stop at stage 4.

Name:
- Jonathan P.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 47
Diagnosis:
- Mediastinal Paraganglioma
Staging:
- Stage 4
Symptoms:
- Shortness of breath
- Facial and neck swelling
- Vein distension
- Dizziness and fainting
- Blacking out after standing up
Treatments:
- Radiation: external beam radiation therapy
- Targeted therapy
- Surgery: cement injection for spinal stabilization

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

Thank you for sharing your story, Jonathan!

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Support & Advocacy in Michaela’s Stage 4B Ovarian Cancer

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date April 7, 2025
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April 7, 2025

Michaela’s High-Grade Stage 4B Ovarian Cancer Highlights the Power of Advocacy and Support

Michaela was diagnosed with high-grade stage 4B ovarian cancer in March 2024 after experiencing a range of symptoms including persistent side and abdominal pain that were initially overlooked by multiple doctors. She leaned on her daughter, Sonia, during this difficult time. Michaela and Sonia sought medical attention after Michaela’s pain intensified, which pushed them to consult a gynecologist and a gastroenterologist. These efforts led to the discovery of Michaela’s cancer.

Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Sonia, having dealt with cancer herself, was deeply involved in advocating for her mother’s needs. She drew from her own experience and the advocacy skills she learned while caring for her grandmother who had dementia. Michaela and Sonia decided to go to MD Anderson in Houston. They quickly moved forward with a treatment plan that included chemotherapy and surgery. Although the biopsy results were inconclusive, Michaela was treated with neoadjuvant therapy, involving rounds of chemotherapy before and after surgery.

Despite facing an aggressive cancer stage, Michaela’s surgery was successful, removing all visible tumors. However, Michaela then had to deal with the anxiety and panic attacks that emerged post-treatment and with the fear of recurrence, too.

Michaela and Sonia emphasize the importance of self-advocacy in healthcare, stressing the need for women to insist on thorough examinations and tests when they feel something is wrong. They also highlight the limitations of standard procedures, like Pap smears, in diagnosing ovarian cancer. They urge a more comprehensive approach that includes CT scans and CA125 blood tests.

Throughout Michaela’s story, Sonia’s unwavering support and Michaela’s determination shine through. They advocate awareness and proactive health checks for early detection, emphasizing the strength found in family and medical teams. Their experience underscores the silent threat cancer poses and the need for vigilance and resilience in facing it.

Watch the video to learn about:

How Michaela’s courage helped her face an overlooked “silent killer” and its emotional toll.
How advocacy skills proved crucial in seeking treatment.
The importance of thorough medical checks.
Michaela’s and Sonia’s takeaways from this experience.

Name:
- Michaela E.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 67
Diagnosis:
- Ovarian Cancer (High-Grade)
Staging:
- Stage 4B
Symptoms:
- Bloating and mild swelling
- Occasional discomfort and pain in abdominal/pelvic region
- Noisier digestion than usual
- Fatigue
- Pressure/pain after emptying bladder
Treatments:
- Surgery
- Chemotherapy: neoadjuvant and post-surgery

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

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