Journey of Resilience
Overcome Stage IIIC Ovarian Cancer After 2 years of Misdiagnosis
How a 27-Year-Old Survivor Transformed Adversity into Support for Others
Charlotte was just 27 when she learned she had ovarian cancer, a diagnosis made after two years of persistent abdominal pain. Initially dismissed as anxiety by doctors, her condition worsened until an intestinal blockage led to urgent surgery on April 1, 2013. During the operation, specialists discovered advanced cancer nodules throughout her abdomen. A follow-up pathology report confirmed Stage IIIC, low-grade ovarian cancer. Charlotte then transferred to the Pompidou Hospital in Paris, where a gynecological surgeon explained that the disease originated in her ovaries, requiring further surgery and chemotherapy.
Throughout treatment, Charlotte received unwavering support from her partner, family, and friends. At the same time, her mother was battling breast cancer, making the challenge especially difficult. Despite facing chemotherapy and concerns over fertility, Charlotte focused on maintaining a sense of normalcy. She successfully managed to keep her hair by using iced caps during infusions and devoted herself to complementary therapies such as acupuncture and homeopathy. Though she lost 15 kilograms, she sustained her morale by continuing social activities—sometimes even going out to dance clubs after certain chemo sessions.
Professionally, Charlotte experienced an unusual stroke of luck. A company that planned to hire her before her diagnosis agreed to wait until she recovered. This act of faith allowed her to maintain hope for her future career. Eventually, she launched her own social impact startup, “Mister K Fighting Kit,” offering curated beauty boxes and accessories tailored to the needs of cancer patients. The brand’s empowering mantras and design-driven products aim to help individuals retain dignity and confidence during treatment. Part of the proceeds supports research at Gustave Roussy, a leading cancer center in France.
Through perseverance, creativity, and community support, Charlotte emerged from her ordeal as an entrepreneur committed to improving the lives of cancer fighters everywhere
Diagnosis
Stage IIIC low-grade ovarian cancer discovered after two years of misdiagnosed symptoms
Biomarker profile: Not reported
Treatment
Major surgery and chemotherapy, supplemented by complementary therapies
Outcome
Successful recovery, launch of a social enterprise, and ongoing advocacy for cancer survivors
Source: Vivre Avec (France)