My Journey with Cancer: Overcoming Pain and Surgery to Achieve Survival

Growing up with a long history of cancer in my family, I always knew that the possibility of inheriting a genetic predisposition toward cancer was real. After enduring prolonged and excruciating pain throughout my body, I decided to take the step of genetic testing. The pain in my bones, particularly in my ribs, chest, and back, was so intense that I eventually had to visit the emergency room, enduring an EKG and receiving migraine medication, but my symptoms were not fully addressed. Blood tests eventually confirmed my diagnosis of leukemia, a cancer of the blood and bone marrow that affects children, like myself, more commonly than adults.

The Journey Begins

The path to my diagnosis started with a series of unexplained and severe bodily pains. Despite the intense discomfort, I initially thought it might be due to fibromyalgia or muscle issues. However, as the pain persisted, my family and I explored several possibilities. It wasn't until a series of blood tests that the truth became clear. The initial results showed that I was anemic and my vitamin D levels were severely low. A retest two days later, prompted by suspicions of a viral infection, resulted in my emergency department admission due to worsening symptoms.

during this critical period, my mother insisted on having a blood test, even as the doctors initially brushed off her concerns. This insistence ultimately led to the discovery of leukemia. The diagnosis came as a shock, but the prognosis is encouraging, with high survival rates for children diagnosed with leukemia, particularly those whose leukemia is the most common type, like mine.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Upon diagnosis, I underwent a bone marrow biopsy and received a port surgery. My bone marrow biopsy revealed a high percentage of leukemia cells, approximately 95%, while my lumbar puncture (LP) had only 0.5 blast cells. This indicates that while the condition is aggressive, it is not as advanced as it could be. My treatment plan now spans two years, with the first eight months consisting of aggressive chemotherapy. This aggressive course is necessary to weaken the cancer cells and prepare me for the subsequent phases of treatment.

The treatment road has not been easy, with hospitalizations totaling 13 times due to both planned procedures and unforeseen complications. Each hospital stay required my family, care team, and friends to rally around me, providing emotional and physical support during my darkest moments. Despite the challenges, I’ve managed to maintain a firm resolve, supported by my care team and their evolving treatment strategies, including the inclusion of immunotherapy.

A Heartening Outlook

Immunotherapy has become a significant option in the management of my condition, offering a new avenue of treatment with promising results. While my journey has been fraught with pain and uncertainty, the hope and advancements in medical technology have brought me though my darkest moments.

Conclusion

I strongly believe that no doctor should tell you "you're fine" when you're not, and that staying strong in the face of adversity is key to overcoming such challenges. In my first week of diagnosis, my nurse reminded me that there is always a silver lining, a message that I cherish and reflect upon during tough times. Despite the obstacles, I am grateful for the continuous support from my care team, family, and friends. My road to recovery is long but hopeful, with May just around the corner, I can see light at the end of the tunnel.