After my junior year of high school, I spent three weeks at summer camp full of activities. However, I noticed worrying symptoms: excessive sweating, increased appetite, and acne. As fall arrived, these symptoms intensified. I experienced missed periods, insomnia, anxiety, easy bruising, migraines, and weight gain. Stress from SAT prep and a part-time job seemed the logical explanation.
The progression of symptoms felt logical, like stress-induced changes. Eating seemed normal with increased exercise. Migraines were familiar, as my mom had them too. Yet, the mental impact was severe. I felt unattractive and isolated myself.
“Scans Showed the Worst-Case Scenario”
Missing a second period prompted me to seek medical advice. My pediatrician suspected Cushing’s Syndrome, a disorder linked to abnormal cortisol levels. Tests confirmed high cortisol and led to further exploration of possible causes. Benign pituitary tumors are common, so a brain MRI was scheduled.
Meanwhile, I grappled with college applications, feeling miserable. Negative brain MRI results didn’t bring relief. Abdominal ultrasound revealed a 9-centimeter tumor, and further scans warned of something dire: an 11-centimeter tumor with liver and lung spread, indicating stage 4 cancer.
Diagnosed with Cushing’s Syndrome on November 1, 2023, and adrenocortical carcinoma later in November, my condition became clear. This rare cancer affects about one in a million annually. The diagnosis left me feeling detached, struggling to comprehend.
“Another Scare Just Around the Corner”
A skilled surgeon at Memorial Sloan Kettering was needed. A nine-hour surgery removed my right adrenal gland, the primary tumor, liver part, and diaphragm section. Success came with clean margins, but lung issues remained.
Post-surgery, chemotherapy began. Brutal treatments coincided with finishing senior year remotely, culminated in graduation at NYU with a portable chemo pump. By July 2024, I was cancer-free but hospital-bound with gastritis.
That fall brought improvements, allowing me to reconnect socially. I deferred NYU for a year to rebuild life. Yet, March 2025 revealed a lung recurrence. Immunotherapy offered months, and I started classes in DC. A heart-side tumor prompted more surgery and radiation. Difficulty breathing and school departure followed.
Now in a clinical trial at NIH, I juggle studies at NYU with treatments every three weeks. Living with cancer, neuropathy from chemotherapy limits my mobility.
“Living With Cancer to the Best of My Ability”
The cancer persists in my lungs and liver, yet happiness is achievable despite hurdles. I treasure time with friends, family, and enjoy good meals. Cancer expands your world with new encounters and experiences.
Advocating for self-awareness is crucial. Listening to your body and seeking help can be life-saving. Don’t dismiss symptoms as stress; take health seriously. Finding happiness amid fear is possible.
Virginia Hooper, known as Ginny, lives in Northern Virginia. She documents her cancer journey on social media, inspiring others.
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