Person with a lived experience of cancer

Patricia, United States

How did it start?

My first signs that something was wrong was I began to get bad muscle cramps and just felt really off. I originally thought it was from working a lot. The symptoms kept happening. I got regular bloodwork and the dr called and said get to the hospital right away. My hemoglobins were dangerously low so I was admitted for 5 days the first time. Was admitted the 2nd time 30 days later and yep cancer AGAIN. This is my 2nd time and it sucked. I kepted fighting and am here today!!!!

What was the biggest challenge(s) in your experience with cancer?

dealing with it a 2nd time

What helped you most?

my kids and the amount of support I have. There are a ton of valuable resources out there

What was your experience of the healthcare system?

I love my oncologist. Very proactive and aggressive with treatment. So many tests are mentally and physically exhausting. I was in the middle of a bone marrow biopsy and it hurt. I screamed and the dr did not like that by saying to me as I was laying on my stomach with a needle in my lower back dont do that as I dont do well with screaming. I was livid and couldnt do anything. Once procedure was done he said nothing to me. I was mad

What is your message of hope or words of advice?

Even its small find a ray of hope. Its ok to be upset. All these emotions are normal, its part of the journey. No one can tell you otherwise!

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