Hello, my name is Kim. I am a wife, mom, granny, daughter, sister, auntie, and friend. I am 56 years old. I was diagnosed very unexpectedly at the age of 49 with ovarian cancer stage 3c on December 27, 2013. I am currently in my second recurrence. My story is long, which I am very grateful for – 7 years long. A lot has happened in these years, and I wouldn’t change a thing. Cancer changed me and I feel it changed me all for the better. I am a better person because of it.
During my first run, I had 36 chemotherapy treatments of Taxotere and Carbo. I was allergic to Taxol and couldn’t have that drug. The Taxotere has left me bald, which is okay. It has helped me to stand out and spread more awareness and I feel it’s what God had planned for me. I had chemotherapy for 25 months. Then, on March 11,2016, I was done with chemotherapy. I rang the bell – I had made it. It took a lot longer than planned, but I made it. It was a great 2 years. I stayed NED (no evidence of disease) for 2-1/2 years.
I felt like the cancer was awake. We began my first recurrence with Carbo and Avastin. I had 6 cycles and did the trick. I continued on Avastin for about a year until we knew the cancer was once again awake. This is when my second recurrence began, and this round wouldn’t be so easy. I had to Fight Like A Girl 💪🏻
I tried many drugs; Lynparza, Carbo, and Doxil. Now, I am on Gemzar, which seems to be shrinking the cancer and working. It’s been the hardest challenge yet, but God is getting me through this. I take each day I get. Some days are hard and some days are amazing. I always smile, as I feel it helps in my healing. I have an amazing family and the best of friends supporting me. Some are even across the world and country that I’ve never met, but they continue to fight for me. It’s been a great ride for sure.
Kim
VA
Submitted 12/10/2020
This story is intended to convey a personal experience and, because every person’s experience is unique, should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional healthcare advice.
Wow Kim! God Bless you and thank you for sharing your story.
Thank you for sharing your story Kim! You are a FLAG Warrior for sure. I am in Round 3, #8 of 18 with weekly chemotherapy for ovarian cancer. Thinking of you.