Tag: stage 4

Self-Advocacy and Stage 4 Colon Cancer: Jay’s Story

Post author By Chris Sanchez
Post date June 10, 2025
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June 10, 2025

Jay’s Path to Self-Advocacy and Healing Beyond Stage 4 Colon Cancer

Jay, an ex-athlete and father of three, was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer when he was 43. It all started with a symptom many might overlook: intermittent blood in his stool. But rather than dismiss it, Jay consulted his doctor. This touched off a series of medical tests. A CT scan and colonoscopy revealed a mass, marking the beginning of his life-altering experience.

Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Despite the shock, Jay embraced the process with resilience, navigating surgeries, chemotherapy, and countless medical procedures. His ordeal wasn’t just physical. The mental toll of living with stage 4 colon cancer reshaped his identity. He describes feeling like the sole survivor of a plane crash, grappling with survivor’s guilt as he watched fellow patients succumb to the disease.

This emotional weight prompted Jay to seek mental health support, helping him process not just survival but the loss and changes around him. He discovered that PTSD doesn’t only follow traumatic events like war — it can also stem from enduring a significant illness.

Throughout his treatment for stage 4 colon cancer, Jay focused on self-advocacy. He actively participated in treatment decisions and opted for advanced tests like the KRAS test to personalize his care. This approach to self-advocacy also meant embracing help from family and friends, acknowledging that support isn’t a sign of weakness but an integral part of healing. Jay noted that in his view, his wife and close family bore emotional burdens just as heavy as his own.

Physically, the long-term side effects of treatment linger. Jay describes his fatigue, altered taste sensations, and sensitivity to cold drinks— all reminders of what his body has been through. Yet, his mindset remains empowered. He stresses the importance of being active and cherishes the people who walked beside him, whether offering physical or emotional support.

Jay’s story isn’t just about surviving stage 4 colon cancer — it’s about what he did starting at his diagnosis. From the moment he received the news, Jay became a fierce advocate for his own care. He asked questions, sought out advanced testing, and made sure his voice was part of every treatment decision.

Watch Jay’s story and discover:

The importance of listening to your body
The role of self-advocacy in shaping a treatment path
The unexpected mental hurdles that can come from beating stage 4 colon cancer
Why accepting help is one of the strongest things you can do
How it might be possible to turn an unsettling diagnosis into a life of gratitude and self-awareness

Name:
- Jay W.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 43
Diagnosis:
- Colon Cancer
Staging:
- 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

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, Jay!

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Choosing Quality of Life in Her Rhabdomyosarcoma Treatment

Post author By Katrina Villareal
Post date June 2, 2025
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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. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider to make treatment decisions.

Thank you for sharing your story, Brittany!

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Jennifer’s Mental Strength living with Kidney & Ovarian Cancer

Post author By Katrina Villareal
Post date June 1, 2025
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June 8, 2025

Jennifer’s Mental Strength Living with Stage 3 Kidney and Stage 4 Ovarian Cancer

In 2023, Jennifer was blindsided by a dual diagnosis of stage 3 kidney cancer and stage 4 ovarian cancer. Her life was turned upside down in an instant. But rather than let fear take over, she leaned into the present moment and shifted her mindset toward gratitude, growth, and healing.

Jennifer’s story began with a mysterious, rapidly growing abdominal swelling, which led her to urgent care, then the ER, and finally a whirlwind of scans and surgery. Despite being healthy, active, and symptom-free weeks earlier, Jennifer’s world changed overnight.

Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Katrina Villareal

At first, Jennifer felt emotionally frozen. She was never explicitly told, “You have cancer,” but the weight of the diagnosis was undeniable. She didn’t even learn the exact staging until much later, intentionally avoiding medical reports to protect her mental well-being. Eventually, she discovered her stage 3 kidney cancer and stage 4 ovarian cancer diagnoses, but by then, her focus was already on healing.

One of the most striking parts of Jennifer’s story is how deeply isolation impacted her. With her daughter temporarily living with her father and no family close by, Jennifer went through nearly every step of surgery and chemotherapy alone. Yet, she also found a quiet strength in that solitude. It forced her to self-advocate, connect with supportive professionals like Dr. James Kendrick, and trust her own resilience.

Physically, the process was intense. Jennifer underwent major surgery that removed multiple organs, including her kidney, gallbladder, spleen, and reproductive system. Still, she recovered surprisingly well and chose to forgo heavy pain meds out of caution, relying mostly on acetaminophen and the support of her spiritual community.

Her mental and emotional recovery became just as important. She prioritized walking, listening to her body, and staying emotionally grounded.

Jennifer emphasizes the importance of staying present, advocating for yourself, and refusing to let a diagnosis define who you are. While there are days she still feels afraid, especially around scan times, her approach remains one of empowerment and emotional honesty.

The road ahead includes continued monitoring, a PARP inhibitor regimen, and lifelong surveillance. But what keeps her grounded is her daughter, her deepened gratitude, and her determination not to let fear take the wheel.

Jennifer’s advice to others? Don’t let yourself spiral. Let your mindset lead with curiosity, strength, and presence. You’re allowed to feel everything, but you’re also capable of more than you know.

Watch the video to find out more about Jennifer’s story:

What the worst part of her cancer experience was (it wasn’t surgery or chemo)
Why she refused to look at her medical records after diagnosis.
What helped her cope when the hospital room was quiet and fear was loud.
Why she couldn’t say the C-word and how she found her strength.
How she turned fear, isolation, and uncertainty into radical gratitude and growth.

Name:
- Jennifer W.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 52
Diagnosis:
- Kidney Cancer and Ovarian Cancer
Staging:
- Stage 3 (Kidney Cancer) and Stage 4 (Ovarian Cancer)
Mutation:
- BRCA1
Symptom:
- Abdominal bloating
Treatments:
- Surgeries: hysterectomy, splenectomy, nephrectomy (left kidney removed), cholecystectomy
- Chemotherapy
- Targeted therapy: PARP inhibitor

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, Jennifer!

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Kelly’s Subtle Symptoms of Stage 4 Colon Cancer

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

Kelly Navigates Life With Stage 4 Colon Cancer

Kelly was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer. She reflects on the subtle signs she overlooked — persistent constipation, bloating, and occasional severe abdominal cramps. Like many, she chalked these symptoms up to diet choices and life stress. However, her worsening condition after a recent move pushed her to visit the emergency room. There, a CT scan revealed her diagnosis, and it changed everything.

Interviewed by: Taylor Scheib
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

When she heard the words, “colon cancer”, Kelly felt like the room collapsed around her. Alone in a new state, miles from family, she faced the overwhelming news head-on. Despite her initial denial, especially about undergoing major surgery and having a temporary colostomy bag, the stark reality was clear: accept the treatment or face life-threatening consequences. That pivotal moment shifted her mindset, igniting a determination to do what was necessary to survive.

Initially diagnosed as stage 2, Kelly had the option to undergo chemotherapy but chose not to, feeling hopeful after her surgery. Unfortunately, a year later, she discovered the cancer had metastasized to her liver, upgrading her diagnosis to stage 4 colon cancer. This news devastated her. Yet, amid the emotional whirlwind, she found out she was eligible for surgery to remove the liver tumors, offering a glimmer of hope.

Kelly’s health journey wasn’t just about cancer. Post-surgery, she battled a severe liver infection that left her physically depleted. Surprisingly, that infection felt more life-threatening than cancer itself. Through relentless fevers, night sweats, and unyielding fatigue, Kelly persevered, leaning on sheer willpower and the support of her loved ones.

Reflecting on her experience, Kelly emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy. She wishes she’d pushed harder when symptoms emerged much earlier, like rectal bleeding, once dismissed by her doctor as a minor issue due to her age. She urges fellow patients to trust their instincts, ask questions, and advocate fiercely for their health.

Today, despite the lingering fears that scans and blood tests bring, Kelly embraces life with renewed passion. She cherishes every moment with her children, finds solace in nature, and seeks out new experiences with an invigorated spirit. While there’s a shadow of uncertainty, she remains hopeful and encourages others not to give up. Kelly’s story is a powerful reminder that even in the face of stage 4 colon cancer, life can still be filled with beauty, growth, and purpose.

Watch Kelly’s video for more on:

How a routine ER visit unveiled her unexpected stage 4 colon cancer diagnosis.
The overlooked symptoms that Kelly wishes she’d paid more attention to.
What’s harder — battling cancer or an unexpected post-surgery infection? She shares her truth.
The emotional toll of living with cancer and why self-advocacy matters.
How Kelly’s love for nature became her therapy amid life’s toughest health battles.

Name:
- Kelly C.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 47
Diagnosis:
- Colon Cancer
Staging:
- Stage 4
Symptoms:
- Constipation
- Bloating
- Severe abdominal pain
Treatments:
- Surgeries: colectomy, colostomy, hepatectomy
- 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, Kelly!

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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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