How One Woman Defied the Odds and Advocated for Her Own Health

Nicole, a 42-year-old from Tampa Bay, Florida, faced an unexpected challenge in 2022—an ovarian cancer diagnosis 15 years after overcoming breast cancer. Her persistent symptoms included severe abdominal pain, nausea, frequent but unproductive urges to urinate, and unexplained chest discomfort. Despite seeking help from multiple physicians, she was often told there was nothing wrong. The pain escalated, making eating difficult and leading to a constant feeling of fullness. Even an ER visit resulted in no substantial findings, compounding her frustration.

It was ultimately a routine appointment with an ob-gyn that brought critical insight. An ultrasound revealed a large mass on her omentum, prompting a referral to Moffitt Cancer Center. Tests confirmed the cancer had spread near her clavicles and heart, explaining the nagging chest pain. Chemotherapy began soon after, consisting of seven sessions administered every three weeks. Drawing on advances in treatment since her 2009 breast cancer experience, Nicole utilized a cold cap to preserve her hair—a small solace during a harrowing second battle.

As chemotherapy progressed, her CA125 tumor marker levels plummeted from a concerning 3,300, demonstrating a strong response to the treatment. After four sessions, scans showed that the cancer near her clavicles had vanished, clearing her for a total hysterectomy in April 2023. However, surgery revealed the disease had spread to multiple organs, including the liver, diaphragm, and intestines. The procedure became far more extensive than anticipated, resulting in a difficult recovery marked by severe pain and breathing challenges.

Despite setbacks and a brief hospitalization due to low platelet levels, Nicole completed her remaining chemotherapy sessions, began preventive therapy, and achieved cancer-free status in July 2023. Throughout her experience, she leaned on her family for support, eventually sharing her journey with her children that same month. Now, she actively participates in awareness initiatives for breast and ovarian cancer. Her most vital message underscores trusting personal instincts and persisting in the face of medical uncertainty.