Monica’s Bladder Cancer Story

Diagnosed in 2005 at age 30 with non-invasive bladder cancer

Key message: Don’t ignore any aches, pains, or feelings that something is not right within your body. Be attentive and aggressive with your medical care and know that you do not have to face this journey alone.

2005 was a year full of twists and turns, one of which changed my outlook on life forever. In December of 2005, I had my annual Pap smear. At that time, I hadn’t had any problems or concerns to bring up with my gynecologist. During the examination my gynecologist told me that she felt a lump, which she thought at the time was on my ovaries. She was very concerned about what she felt and immediately scheduled an ultrasound, which showed that the lump was not on my ovaries, but on my bladder. At that time, I was 30 years old with no children. The first thought that came to my mind was, “Will I be able to have children?” My gynecologist referred me to a urologist for additional testing and follow-up.

During the appointment with the urologist I had a cystoscopy and urinalysis done. Afterwards I was told that I had bladder cancer. I never thought that I would hear that phrase in my life. After hearing the news, my emotions were all over the place. I began to ask how, what, when, where, and why? The urologist scheduled me for surgery, which consisted of a biopsy and procedure to remove the tumor known as transurethral resection of a bladder tumor(TURBT). I was at stage Ta: Noninvasive papillary carcinoma (tumor limited to the innermost lining of the epithelium). I was instructed to return every three months for a cystoscopy. I remember reading over the pamphlets at the urology center and doing some research of my own through BCAN and I still was in denial that I had bladder cancer. I had no family history and I never smoked; however, I grew up in a household where both of my parents smoked. I never had any signs or symptoms that would have raised a red flag. In hindsight, I had a history of bladder infections, kidney stones, some urgency, and some blood in my urine, which I assumed was just menstrual blood.

After the procedure, I put on my seat belt, prayed, and rode this journey out! I had follow-up visits every three months, then every six months, and had my share of recurrences. As of December 2012, I have been cancer free for 3½ years and have advanced to having an annual cystoscopy. This journey has been very rocky and I’m truly thankful that my gynecologist followed up and referred me to the urologist. I decided early that I was going to fight. I am a SURVIVOR! My strong faith in God, a loving and supportive husband, and family and friends all keep me going. I continue to stay abreast of bladder cancer via BCAN in addition to being an organizer for the annual Walk for Bladder Cancer. The advice I would give women about bladder cancer is to not ignore any aches, pains, or feelings that something is not right within your body. Be attentive and aggressive with your medical care and know that you do not have to face this journey alone.

2024 Update?

Where Are They Now?

Bladder cancer patients are at various stages of their journey. Some are newly diagnosed, exploring treatment options, while others have completed surgeries or therapies like BCG and are now focused on recovery. Many are adjusting to life post-treatment, keeping up with regular check-ups, and monitoring for recurrence. Whether in remission or continuing care, they remain dedicated to their health, leaning on support systems, and staying hopeful for what lies ahead. 

Let’s hear from Monica to share an update on where she is in her bladder cancer journey: 

It’s been approximately twenty years since I was diagnosed with bladder cancer.  Even though I’m required to have lifelong surveillance check-ups, I am surviving and thriving after bladder cancer.  My outlook on life has changed tremendously.  I try to live each day to its fullest, exercise more, and eliminate as much stress as I can.  In the beginning, I viewed my diagnosis as being negative; however, a lot of positives have come from this diagnosis/journey.  It’s a club that no one wants to be part of; however, I’ve had the pleasure of meeting some resilient people who are now my extended family. The connection with the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network (BCAN) has been a beacon of hope over the last 20 years. I became a patient advocate, organizer of the annual walk to end bladder cancer, and the president of the Richmond VA BCAN chapter.  In addition, this connection has allowed me to share my journey to create a sense of connection, to offer hope, and to give someone the courage to face their own challenges.

Facing bladder cancer can be overwhelming, but several pieces of advice may help navigate this journey. First, remember that you are your best advocate, and it’s okay to seek a second opinion if needed. You don’t have to face this alone—maintain a positive attitude, educate yourself, and allow yourself the space to not always be okay. If you feel disconnected from your urologist or oncologist, don’t hesitate to find a doctor with whom you can build a better connection. Prioritize self-care for your mind, body, and spirit, and stay attentive to your medical care by keeping up with annual health screenings.

Communicate openly with your family, friends, or caregivers, and consider joining a support group like BCAN to find a sense of community. Continue to live fully—bladder cancer is not a death sentence—and when you feel ready, sharing your story might inspire hope in others. Finally, remember to give yourself grace throughout this journey.