Someone Like Me – Your Cancer Community Podcast
Welcome to Someone Like Me – Your Cancer Community Podcast
I’m your host, Vanessa, a breast cancer survivor who created this space after going through it all myself.
Each week I chat with people affected by cancer and the family members who have been through it right alongside them.
These are real, raw, honest conversations about what cancer really feels like — the fear, the grief, the shock, the strength, and the unexpected moments that somehow get you through it.
I’m also launching Someone Like Me – Your Cancer Community mobile app. Keep an eye out, it’s coming soon.
This podcast is here for anyone who has ever thought
“No one gets what I’m going through.”
We do. And you’re not alone anymore.
Let’s make cancer a little less lonely together.
Main sponsor: Breast Cancer Ireland.
Someone Like Me – Your Cancer Community Podcast
E16: Bowel Cancer Shock: From Appendix Pain to Diagnosis at 33 - Claire’s Story
Summary
What started as suspected appendicitis turned into a shocking diagnosis of Stage 4 bowel cancer. At just 33, Claire was preparing for her wedding when her world was turned upside down.
In this powerful episode, Claire shares her journey from the misdiagnosis and emergency surgery, to the moment she heard the words “you have cancer,” and the emotional impact it had on her and her family.
Her honesty and strength will stay with you long after listening.
Takeaways
- Claire's journey began with severe abdominal pain.
- She was initially misdiagnosed with appendicitis.
- The discovery of a cyst on her ovary led to complications.
- Claire faced multiple hospital visits without proper scans.
- She eventually sought help from her GP after months of pain.
- The diagnosis of bowel cancer was a shock to her and her family.
- Claire emphasizes the importance of listening to one's body.
- Immunotherapy became her treatment of choice instead of chemotherapy.
- She discusses the emotional impact of her diagnosis on her family.
- Claire advocates for awareness and early detection of symptoms.
Titles
- From Pain to Diagnosis: Claire's Cancer Journey
- Misdiagnosis and the Fight for Answers
Sound Bites
- "Don't ignore, listen to your body."
- "I just don't want to die."
- "You can live with cancer now."
Chapters
00:00
Introduction and Initial Symptoms
02:41
Surgery and Misdiagnosis
05:37
Ongoing Health Struggles
08:26
Seeking Further Medical Attention
11:09
The Diagnosis Journey
14:00
The Emotional Impact of Diagnosis
17:03
Next Steps and Treatment Plans
28:28
The Importance of Self-Examination
29:46
Navigating Diagnosis and Treatment Decisions
32:03
Processing the News: Family and Support
33:50
Surgery and Recovery: A Turning Point
35:37
Understanding the Diagnosis: From Lumps to Cancer
37:49
The Emotional Toll of Waiting for Results
40:01
The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health
46:57
Treatment Options: Immunotherapy vs. Chemotherapy
50:35
Coping with Side Effects and Mental Health
52:21
Looking Ahead: Life After Cancer