🎗️Misdiagnosis and dismissal by doctors
💔Emotional and financial struggles
💪Advocating for yourself and finding the right diagnosis
👨👩👦Balancing motherhood, marriage, and health
🌈Hope and finding the right treatment at Sloan Kettering
🎗️Misdiagnosis and dismissal by doctors
💔Emotional and financial struggles
💪Advocating for yourself and finding the right diagnosis
👨👩👦Balancing motherhood, marriage, and health
🌈Hope and finding the right treatment at Sloan Kettering
How did the journey with colorectal cancer begin?
—The journey began when I experienced symptoms during pregnancy, which were dismissed as normal. It wasn't until later, when the symptoms worsened, that I sought proper diagnosis and treatment.
What challenges did you face as a young mother with cancer?
—Being a young mother with cancer presented challenges in balancing health, motherhood, and marriage. It was difficult to navigate the emotional and financial struggles, but I found a support system that helped me through it.
Did the misdiagnosis affect your treatment options?
—Yes, the misdiagnosis delayed my treatment and created uncertainty. However, finding the right diagnosis at Sloan Kettering opened up the right treatment options for me.
How did you advocate for yourself during your journey?
—I learned to trust my instincts and speak up about my symptoms. I sought multiple opinions and didn't settle until I found the answers and care I needed.
What message do you have for others going through a similar journey?
—Never underestimate the power of self-advocacy and finding a supportive healthcare team. Remember that you know your body best and deserve the best care possible.
00:00Introduction: Meet Kelly Spill, a young mother who faced colorectal cancer.
04:56Symptoms misdiagnosed: Kelly's symptoms were dismissed as normal during pregnancy, delaying the correct diagnosis.
12:28Getting married for insurance: Kelly and her husband had to get married to ensure she had health insurance coverage.
15:40Stage three diagnosis: Kelly learns she has stage three colorectal cancer, with a tumor close to her anal opening.
20:10Balancing motherhood, marriage, and health: Kelly shares the challenges of managing her roles while navigating cancer treatment.
28:15Advocating for herself: Kelly emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy and seeking multiple opinions for the right diagnosis and treatment.
35:45Finding hope at Sloan Kettering: Kelly's journey leads her to Sloan Kettering, where she receives the right treatment and support.
40:30Closing thoughts: Kelly encourages others to trust their instincts, find a supportive healthcare team, and never give up.
