Pain In My Side To Stage 4 CANCER - Monica | Colon Cancer | The Patient Story

Summary

Monica, a 32-year-old from Australia living in Croatia, shares her powerful journey with stage four colon cancer. Initially dismissed as a dietary issue, her symptoms led to a shocking diagnosis. Despite the challenges of surgery, chemotherapy, and a stoma, Monica remains resilient, using her experience to raise awareness about cancer, especially for younger people. Through social media, she encourages self-advocacy, emphasizing the importance of early detection and the mental strength needed to fight cancer. With the support of her community, Monica's story is one of positivity, empowerment, and hope, urging others to live fully, even in the face of adversity.

Takeaways

• 😀 Early symptoms of colon cancer can be subtle, such as abdominal pain and bloating, and may be misdiagnosed as something less serious like IBS.
• 😀 It’s crucial to listen to your body and advocate for yourself when doctors suggest common diagnoses. Don’t settle for assumptions, especially if symptoms persist.
• 😀 Colon cancer can affect younger people—Monica, at 32, was diagnosed with stage four cancer, which had spread to lymph nodes.
• 😀 A CT scan revealed a tumor blocking 90% of Monica’s intestines, leading to emergency surgery and the removal of several cancerous lymph nodes.
• 😀 The emotional toll of cancer treatment is immense, but a positive mindset, support from loved ones, and finding humor in difficult situations can help cope with the challenges.
• 😀 Chemotherapy, though effective, comes with harsh side effects like hair loss, digestive issues, and general weakness, but Monica chose to face these challenges with humor and confidence.
• 😀 Social media, like TikTok, can be an unexpected source of support. Monica’s honest posts about her journey have helped others in similar situations feel less isolated.
• 😀 Having a strong support network is essential. Monica found comfort in her Croatian community, with people offering rides, meals, and emotional support when needed.
• 😀 Cancer should be discussed openly, and self-advocacy is crucial—if you have symptoms, don’t ignore them. Early detection through screenings like colonoscopies can save lives.
• 😀 Monica emphasizes that cancer is not a death sentence. The statistics are just numbers, and with the right attitude and care, it's possible to live a fulfilling life during treatment and beyond.

Q & A

What were some of the initial signs that led you to seek medical attention?

The initial sign was a persistent pain in my side, which I initially thought was due to a change in my diet. It came and went, and I didn’t think much of it at first, but when it returned a month later, I realized it was something more serious.

How did you feel when you first found out about the tumor?

I was in a bit of shock and disbelief. When I was told I had a tumor, I was just numb, almost in a state of oblivion. I didn’t really process it immediately and just trusted the medical team. But once I woke up after the surgery and realized the extent of it, that’s when it really hit me.

What did the doctors find during your surgeries and scans?

The tumor was blocking 90% of the circumference of my intestines. They also discovered 25 lymph nodes, of which 18 were cancerous. One lymph node in the periodic area remained, which is rare for colon cancer to spread to that region.

How did the chemotherapy affect you physically and emotionally?

Chemotherapy was tough on my body. Initially, I tried fasting around my chemo sessions to boost the treatment, but it caused severe digestive issues, and I was hospitalized. The physical toll of chemo, like vomiting and hair loss, was hard to deal with, especially since I had always taken pride in my health and appearance.

What was your experience with the stoma, and how did it affect your confidence?

At first, I was apprehensive about the stoma, but over time, I grew more comfortable with it. Surprisingly, it made me feel more confident. It helped me realize that health is what truly matters, and I could embrace the change rather than let it define me negatively.

How did you cope with the emotional challenges of cancer treatment?

I stayed positive by staying busy and focusing on what I could control. I found strength in talking openly about my experience on TikTok and advocating for early detection. My dog also played a huge role in lifting my spirits during the tough days.

Why did you decide to start sharing your cancer journey on TikTok?

I started sharing my journey on TikTok to raise awareness and help others who might be going through the same thing. It also helped me process my own emotions and explain things to my family and friends. I didn't expect it, but the positive response from people who were going through similar struggles was incredibly rewarding.

What advice would you give to others regarding health and cancer diagnosis?

Don’t ignore your symptoms, and don’t let doctors dismiss your concerns. Advocate for yourself, get the tests you need, and don’t wait for a diagnosis to get worse. Cancer can affect anyone, regardless of age or health, so take action early.

How did your friends and community support you through your diagnosis?

The support from my community in Croatia has been overwhelming. People I barely knew stepped up to take me to the hospital, help with daily tasks, and provide emotional support. It really made me realize the importance of community and how much people care when you need it the most.

What has been the most challenging aspect of living with cancer, and how do you manage it?

The most challenging part is the constant fear that the cancer will come back. It’s hard to shake that feeling, but I try to stay focused on living in the present. I also rely on the support from friends, my community, and social media to keep my spirits up.