Tag: stage 4

Lindy’s Stage 4 Colon Cancer Story

Post author By Katrina Villareal
Post date December 17, 2024
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Lindy’s Stage 4 Colon Cancer Story

Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Katrina Villareal

Lindy was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer when she was two months postpartum at age 34. During her pregnancy, Lindy experienced severe abdominal pain, changes in bowel movements, blood in her stool, and significant discomfort, all of which she initially attributed to pregnancy. Unbeknownst to her, these symptoms were indicative of colon cancer, which was eventually discovered during a routine full-body MRI for a previous benign brain tumor and spinal tumor.

Doctors identified malignant cancer had spread to her colon, lymph nodes, liver, and lungs. The shock of her diagnosis came at a time when Lindy was navigating the challenges of new motherhood. She took an active role in researching her diagnosis, and while the news was overwhelming, it helped her process the information before meeting with her oncologist.

Lindy’s treatment began swiftly with chemotherapy in January following her December diagnosis. Although surgery was not considered an immediate option due to the cancer’s spread, chemotherapy has been her primary treatment. She transitioned to maintenance chemotherapy, as her body responded well to the treatment with minimal side effects. While she still experiences some numbness from neuropathy, she considers herself fortunate for not facing more severe symptoms.

Throughout her experience, Lindy has been grateful for her medical team, who never dismissed her concerns despite her young age. While colon cancer is typically seen in older individuals, Lindy’s case is part of a growing trend of younger people being diagnosed with the disease. This has prompted her to encourage friends and family to undergo early screening.

Lindy is realistic about her prognosis, understanding that while her cancer is not curable, it is treatable, and she remains hopeful for potential advancements in treatment. She has made practical preparations for the future while focusing on enjoying life with her son and husband. Lindy’s strong support system has helped her navigate both motherhood and cancer.

Lindy emphasizes not spiraling into despair. Instead, she encourages others to seek out a supportive care team, possibly including palliative care to manage pain symptoms, and to focus on living in the moment. Lindy’s outlook remains positive, bolstered by the progress she’s made and the hope for future treatment developments. Despite the challenges, she is determined to live as fully as possible, enjoying time with her loved ones.

Name: Lindy A.
Diagnosis:
- Colon Cancer
Staging:
- Stage 4
Symptoms:
- Blood in stool
- Changes in bowel movements
- Pencil-thin stool
- Severe abdominal pain
- Loss of appetite
- Rapid weight loss
- Anemia
- Fatigue
Treatments:
- Chemotherapy

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

Thank you for sharing your story, Lindy!

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Angela’s Stage 4 Leiomyosarcoma Story

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date December 13, 2024
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December 13, 2024

Angela’s Stage 4 Leiomyosarcoma Story

Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Angela J., who has been diagnosed with uterine leiomyosarcoma, shares her experiences and challenges related to her illness. She provides a detailed account of her journey from the onset of symptoms to the current state of her health.

Angela describes how she first started experiencing irregular menstrual cycles in 2017. Over time, these cycles became progressively worse, accompanied by increased pain, heavier bleeding, and other symptoms. She sought medical help and was put on hormone treatments to manage the symptoms. Additionally, she underwent a uterine ablation in hopes of reducing the bleeding and controlling her condition. However, despite these efforts, the symptoms persisted and worsened over time.

In 2023, Angela’s condition deteriorated, leading to severe pain and significant weight gain. An emergency situation ensued, which required her to undergo surgery. It was only then that the doctors discovered that she had uterine leiomyosarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer. This diagnosis marked a turning point in Angela’s journey, leading to a shift in treatment and care.

Following the diagnosis, Angela underwent chemotherapy. The chemotherapy regimen brought its own set of challenges, including difficult side effects. Despite these hardships, she received the positive news that her cancer had stabilized and is not currently progressing.

Angela shares her experience with the ongoing adjustments to her life post-diagnosis. She is currently on disability retirement, which has allowed her to focus more on personal interests and passions, such as painting, arts and crafts, and spending time with her grandchildren. She finds solace and joy in these creative activities, as well as in writing a book, which has become another outlet for her emotions and reflections during this period.

Angela expresses a sense of resilience and hope as she navigates her new reality. She expresses gratitude for her current stable condition, acknowledging the difficulties she has faced but also the strength she has found in creativity and family support.

Name:
- Angela J.
Diagnosis:
- Uterine leiomyosarcoma
Age at Diagnosis:
- 46
Staging:
- Stage 4
Initial Symptoms:
- Pain in the left hip, thigh, back, and abdominal area
- Difficulty passing stools, alternating with diarrhea
- Nausea
- Swollen abdomen and stomach
- Feeling full quickly
- Rapid weight gain
Treatment:
- Surgery (hysterectomy, partial salpingectomy)
- Chemotherapy

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

Thank you for sharing your story, Angela!

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Natalie’s Stage 4 Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Story

Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Natalie, who hails from Atlanta, GA, was diagnosed with stage 4 non-small cell lung cancer in June 2020. Her diagnosis followed a challenging 6-month period of inconclusive tests and misdiagnoses due to her age and non-smoking status. Her doctors initially attributed her symptoms, primarily fatigue and a persistent cough, to less serious conditions such as allergies or asthma. Despite undergoing multiple diagnostic procedures, including x-rays, CT scans, biopsies, and PET scans, Natalie only received her cancer diagnosis after one of her lungs collapsed during a biopsy.

Natalie was overwhelmed by the stage 4 diagnosis, associating the prognosis with a death sentence. Her cancer had already spread to both lungs and her lymph nodes, and her oncologist confirmed that there was no definitive cure. Natalie immediately began chemotherapy and immunotherapy treatments. While she managed the physical side effects, particularly severe fatigue, she continued working throughout her treatment, with few people aware of her diagnosis.

Over the course of 4 years, Natalie underwent 2 clinical trials after her cancer progressed, neither of which were successful. The first trial, at Emory Hospital, left her feeling worse than she did on chemotherapy and required multiple hospital visits. The second trial, in Nashville, produced no significant side effects. After these trials failed, she returned to chemotherapy, which has stabilized her cancer’s growth for now.

Beyond the physical challenges, Natalie has also struggled with the mental toll of her stage 4 non-small cell lung cancer. Therapy, her husband’s unwavering support, and her close-knit group of friends and family have been essential to her well-being. She acknowledges that at times she considered giving up treatment due to exhaustion but found renewed determination through the support of her loved ones and her desire to live and experience more of life.

Recently, Natalie’s pulmonologist informed her that she might be a candidate for a double lung transplant, a procedure that could potentially offer her a cure. She is in the early stages of the process and hopes that her cancer remains confined to her lungs so she can be placed on the donor list.

Natalie emphasizes the importance of advocating for lung cancer awareness, noting that anyone with lungs is at risk, not just smokers. She encourages others facing similar challenges to try to keep going, acknowledging the mental and physical difficulties of battling cancer. Her message is one of resilience and the importance of not giving up, even when the path is painful and difficult.

Name:
- Natalie B.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 33
Diagnosis:
- Non-small cell lung cancer
Staging:
- Stage 4
Initial Symptoms:
- Persistent cough
- Fatigue
Treatment:
- Chemotherapy (Carboplatin, Alimta)
- Immunotherapy (Keytruda)
- Clinical trials
- Radiation (palliative)

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

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Despite the physical and emotional toll, Melissa remains resilient, supported by her medical team and faith. She credits her Christian doctors, who prayed with her before procedures, for their compassionate care. Now, Melissa continues treatment, grateful for her improved quality of life, and cherishing every day as a gift.

Name:
- Melissa W.
Diagnosis:
- Gastric adenocarcinoma (stomach cancer)
Staging:
- Stage 4b
Initial Symptoms:
- Feeling like something was in her throat
- Occasional nausea
- Acid reflux
- Occasional feeling of having boiling water in her stomach
- Soreness in the bottom of her ribcage
Treatment:
- Chemotherapy (FOLFOX)
- Immunotherapy (zimberelimab, domvanalimab, Opdivo)

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

Thank you for sharing your story, Melissa!

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Monica underwent chemotherapy and has been navigating treatment with resilience, even as she faced delays like that occurring due to her contracting COVID-19 before a crucial surgery. Chemotherapy reduced the size of her cancerous lymph nodes, and she is also on immunotherapy.

While the physical toll on Monica has been significant—causing her to lose hair and endure digestive issues—she remains pragmatic, and finds solace in maintaining an active lifestyle, walking her dog, and focusing on her recovery. She reflects on the emotional impact of her diagnosis, stating that she was not initially devastated. Instead, she quickly adjusted to the situation, finding humor in some of the challenging moments, such as learning to live with a temporary stoma. She acknowledges that the hardest part may come after treatment, living with the uncertainty of remission.

Monica also uses her experience to advocate for cancer awareness on TikTok, where she discusses her journey to inspire others. Her content has resonated with women, who reach out to express gratitude for her openness. Monica stresses the importance of colonoscopies and challenges the tendency of doctors to dismiss symptoms like hers as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), especially in young women.

Despite the difficulties, Monica chooses to maintain a positive outlook. She is determined to fight the disease and rejects the notion that cancer must define or consume her life. She believes cancer should be viewed as an accessory rather than a death sentence and emphasizes the importance of staying active, both mentally and physically. Monica’s story highlights the power of community, as her friends in Croatia have rallied around her during treatment, offering support and care when her family in Australia is far away.

Name:
- Monica A.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 31
Diagnosis:
- Colon cancer
Staging:
- Stage 4
Initial Symptoms:
- Recurrent pain in side
- Severely swollen stomach
Treatment:
- Surgery (removal of tumor and cancerous lymph nodes)
- Chemotherapy (Folfiri)
- Immunotherapy (bevacizumab)

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

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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.

Name:
- Nicole L.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 40
Diagnosis:
- Ovarian cancer
Staging:
- Stage 4
Initial Symptoms:
- Extreme abdominal pain
- Nausea when in a moving vehicle
- Frequent urge to urinate (often unsuccessful)
- Chest pain
Treatment:
- Chemotherapy (carboplatin and paclitaxel)
- Surgery (removal of cancer from liver, diaphragm, bladder, small intestine; total hysterectomy)
- Cold cap
- PARP inhibitor (Lynparza)

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

Thank you for sharing your story, Nicole!

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Nina, diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer at 34, shares her experience of navigating the complexities of her illness and advocating for her health. She initially noticed a hardening under her left armpit. A year later, the lump grew and her breast showed signs of dimpling. A mammogram and ultrasound finally revealed an abnormal lump and a biopsy confirmed stage 3 breast cancer. Shortly after, scans showed the cancer had spread to her spine, escalating her diagnosis to stage 4.

Nina quickly shifted into a problem-solving mode, managing her treatment plan, scheduling appointments, and staying organized amidst the overwhelming process. She expressed how emotionally challenging it was to balance her feelings while supporting the emotions of those around her.

Her treatment plan included chemotherapy, followed by a lumpectomy, and radiation on both her breast and spine. She continues to undergo regular infusions and medications to keep the cancer at bay. While the chemotherapy caused a lot of side effects, including hair loss, neuropathy, mouth sores, fatigue, and brain fog, she found strength in adapting to these challenges. Despite needing to remain in treatment indefinitely, her current scans show no evidence of disease.

One of the most challenging aspects of her cancer experience was induced menopause, which affected her physically and emotionally, particularly the loss of her ability to carry children. The lifestyle changes brought about by cancer were also difficult for Nina. However, she found solace in documenting her experience online, helping others understand the realities of living with cancer, especially young women and women of color.

Sharing her story became a way to raise awareness and a form of therapy. Nina’s advice to others is to advocate for themselves and to practice radical acceptance of the life changes that cancer brings. She emphasizes the importance of self-love and reevaluating what truly matters during difficult times.

Name: Nina M.
Diagnosis:
- Breast Cancer
Staging:
- Stage 4
Symptoms:
- Hardening under the armpit
- Lump & dimpling in the left breast
Treatments:
- Chemotherapy
- Surgery: lumpectomy
- Radiotherapy
- Hormone-blocking medication
- Targeted therapy

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

Thank you for sharing your story, Nina!

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Jessica’s Stage 4 BRAF Mutation Colon Cancer Story

Post author By Katrina Villareal
Post date October 25, 2024
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October 25, 2024

Jessica’s Stage 4 BRAF Mutation Colon Cancer Story

Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Katrina Villareal

Jessica was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer at 26. Four months before her diagnosis, she began experiencing intense episodes of stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting, which would last for 48 hours. She initially thought she had a gluten intolerance and visited emergency doctors several times. They misdiagnosed her with gastroenteritis and prescribed ineffective medication

Frustrated by the recurring symptoms, Jessica pushed for blood tests, suspecting something more serious. During a particularly severe episode of stomach cramps, she called an ambulance and was taken to the hospital. Blood tests revealed that she was severely anemic, requiring multiple blood transfusions. A subsequent CT scan suggested the presence of a tumor in her colon. Despite some reluctance from doctors to comment on the findings, a colonoscopy confirmed the diagnosis.

Jessica described the colonoscopy as a traumatic experience since she was awake during the procedure and could sense something was wrong. Afterward, she was told she had a tumor blocking part of her colon, causing her digestive issues. Although it wasn’t immediately confirmed as cancerous, Jessica underwent surgery to remove half of her colon (a hemicolectomy), during which 36 lymph nodes were tested. The results showed that the cancer had spread, confirming stage 4 colon cancer.

Jessica faced a roller coaster of emotions when told she had the BRAF genetic mutation, which is resistant to chemotherapy. However, a post-surgical PET scan revealed no remaining cancer in her body, which was a miracle. Despite the initial bleak prognosis, she completed six months of chemotherapy and has been in remission since November 2022.

Throughout chemotherapy, Jessica experienced manageable side effects, including fatigue and neuropathy. Mentally, she remained optimistic, having come to terms with living a fulfilling life regardless of her prognosis. Her treatment gave her a new perspective on life, changing her outlook on relationships and personal boundaries. She acknowledged grieving her old self but ultimately embraced her transformed identity.

Jessica’s message to others is that they are stronger than they realize. She encourages people to see difficult experiences as temporary and reminds them that life can look vastly different in a year, offering opportunities for growth and new perspectives.

Name: Jessica T.
Diagnosis:
- Colon Cancer
Staging:
- Stage 4
Mutation:
- BRAF
Symptoms:
- Severe stomach cramps
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Anemia (discovered later)
Treatments:
- Surgery: hemicolectomy (removal of half the colon)
- Chemotherapy

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

Thank you for sharing your story, Jessica!

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Ashley’s Stage 4 Adrenal Cancer Story

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date October 21, 2024
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October 21, 2024

Ashley’s Stage 4 Adrenal Cancer Story

Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Ashley, a 35-year-old ICU nurse from Michigan, shares her intense journey with adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC), a rare and aggressive cancer.

In February 2023, she discovered she was pregnant with her third child. Although her pregnancy initially seemed normal, at 9 weeks she began experiencing concerning symptoms, including swollen ankles. Subsequent medical testing revealed a copy number variation, a rare condition linked to the possibility of blood cancer or tumors. An MRI later uncovered a football-sized tumor on her adrenal gland.

Ashley underwent surgery on May 31, 2023, to remove the tumor. The procedure was complicated, and she lost a significant amount of blood. Tragically, the day after surgery, her unborn son, Noah, passed away. Ashley was devastated but remains very grateful for Noah’s role in prompting the medical procedures that revealed her cancer.

Ashley had to undergo more surgeries, including open-heart surgery, after part of the tumor blocked her pulmonary artery. A few days after these surgeries, her doctors diagnosed her with stage 3 adrenocortical carcinoma. Though they initially declared her cancer-free after surgery, a follow-up scan in July 2023 showed that the cancer had spread to her liver, advancing to stage 4. Determined to seek the best care, Ashley connected with a specialist, Dr. Gary Hammer, at the University of Michigan Hospital.

Ashley’s treatment journey involved multiple rounds of chemotherapy and a switch to immunotherapy when her tumors showed minimal response to initial chemotherapy. She also underwent liver surgery and radiation, but in July 2024, scans showed that the cancer had spread to her lungs. Ashley’s doctors proposed a new chemotherapy regimen, but insurance challenges prevented her from accessing it. After unsuccessful multiple appeals, she had to return to her original chemotherapy plan with modifications.

Despite the physical and emotional toll, Ashley maintains a positive outlook, staying active with her family and involving herself in holistic treatments to complement her cancer care. She has also become an advocate, raising awareness of ACC and the difficulties of dealing with insurance companies. Through it all, Ashley remains determined to fight her cancer, focusing on her family as her primary motivation. She emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy, never giving up, and continuing to pursue every possible treatment.

Name:
- Ashley S.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 34
Diagnosis:
- Adrenocortical carcinoma
Staging:
- Stage 4
Initial Symptoms:
- Swollen ankles
- Very low potassium levels
Treatment:
- Surgery (removal of tumor, open-heart surgery)
- Chemotherapy (EDP, Cabometyx, Carboplatin, mitotane)
- Immunotherapy (Keytruda)
- Radiation

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

Thank you for sharing your story, Ashley!

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Ashley emphasizes the need for patients to advocate for themselves and seek second opinions. She shares her experience with various doctors, particularly the importance of one doctor making eye contact and truly listening to her concerns, which helped her feel validated.

Ashley’s journey has taught her the value of mental health support, palliative care, and integrative services, such as physical therapy and nutrition. She highlights the importance of having a support system, both in terms of healthcare providers and loved ones, to navigate the complexities of cancer treatment. Despite the challenges, Ashley remains proactive in managing her care and encourages others to stay informed and engaged in their treatment.

Name:
- Ashley V.
Diagnosis:
- Non-small cell lung cancer
Staging:
- Stage 4
Initial Symptoms:
- Trouble swallowing
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Chest pain
- Swelling in her body
Treatment:
- Surgery (removal of lung)
- Chemotherapy
- Immunotherapy
- Radiation