My Stage IV Kidney Cancer Diagnosis Story

[@justjulee9135]

Thank you so much for sharing your story. It means the world to me. My mother was diagnosed with Renal Cell Carcinoma on December 18, 1996. That date was also my 26th birthday. She had never had any real symptoms to lead any of us to believe something like cancer was going on. She had been having fatigue and sinus symptoms mainly. In fact, she had been to her PCP for her annual checkup in October and everything checked out fine. The reason she went to the ER the day she found out was she was bleeding heavily with urination. Apparently her tumor had opened up and started bleeding. She had to wait over a week for surgery to remove the kidney and tumor, because of the holidays. I feel like the waiting is what allowed her cancer to spread so quickly. Your blood is filtered through your kidneys and the tumor had opened up and it took 9 days to have the surgery done. At that point in time there weren't many options for treatment of kidney cancer. She passed away June 30, 1997 and my world was forever changed. I ended up donating one of my kidneys in 2001 to a man with polycystic kidney disease. I also went back to nursing school in 2008 and graduated in 2011. I miss her so much. Sorry for the extremely long comment.

[@Haley497]

Bless you for your comment and all included in it. My mom had blood in her urine last August. Doing the maths, it was seven months ago. Last Monday the hospital called. She will have surgery somewhere during the next two months. She has been coughing hard for the past six months. And this February she started having a severe neuropathic pain on her left leg. To make matters worse, my mom is a doctor. I feel like she has known damn well what's up for months. Denial is a bitch. They are removing her left kidney along with several other urinary tract bits and pieces. I feel terrified. I do hope I have it in me to overcome the pain like you have. In fact, my mom's first reaction was "hey, don't worry, people live just fine with only one kidney"...except I read the consent form of her surgery and it stated clearly 'malignant neoplasy'. I just don't know how much time left she has at this point. She will never tell me. But going by your story, not much. I feel terrified.

[@cmcgalrd]

I am SO SICK of doctors telling us women everything is anxiety!

[@alabamajenny8751]

Amen! And if you have “anxiety” as a part of your legal medical history, it will follow you. That will allow a lot of medical professionals (not all, but many) to dismiss your worries. So don’t get angry, be firm. Yes, I have anxiety, but do not dismiss the fact that I know my body. And if you are dismissed, or denied tests, say these six words to your medical professional: “document that in my medical record!” Document what? “That you are denying me these tests.” That should get you medical care you need. Listen to your body. No, really listen. Look for changes in bowel habits, some new symptom, one that lasts for more than a couple weeks, and that headache that won’t go away. A stomach ache, the one that ISNT JUST STRESS. You know when it is isn’t your normal. Don’t allow anyone to dismiss your concerns. I’d rather be wrong than to ignore something that could potentially lead to a diagnosis that will change your life. TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR OWN HEALTHCARE! You KNOW YOUR BODY LIKE NO ONE ELSE!

[@kiwipics]

Not just women ...

[@Itsjustash04]

That and "oh it's just pains from your cycle." NO. We can tell the damn difference. Take us SERIOUSLY!

[@deanne9266]

Yes! Doctors blame it on anxiety, hormones, swollen flank that it is fat, etc etc. Be persistent, if you can afford it get a private scan, blood work, listen to your body, get second or third opinion if doctor dismisses you or gaslights you.

[@MOAB-UT]

Not just women Ceem. I got a concussion and they pushed sooooooooo hard to steer me towards an anxiety label. He kept insisting that I was anxious, making me fill out 30+ psych questions. I thought at first it was a bad joke but they were dead serious. I was off my game- happens when you can't see well and get the sweats, but anxious- no. I've always been particularly chill and that did not change. I guess that label would help them to write their precocious script$. All these docs want is a quick label and to push pills. I am very strong mentally and not a push over. I saw what he was doing and did not fall for it. He seemed to resent that as well. Kept trying to sell me. No interest in my actual well being whatsoever. It is a sick and twisted system docs are put into. The pressure to write is incredible. I could have benefited from fish oil- I called my doc and left 3 messages about that- no call back. Found a new doc. I am a man BTW.

[@melcerra2375]

Thank you for sharing your story. It is extremely helpful. I’m a nurse practitioner at an urgent care and am glad to hear that the NP you saw that night took you seriously. It is important for the medical community to hear these stories and learn from them. 💕💕

[@user-yt5dg8nf6y]

What exactly is "urgent care"?

[@user-wd3po8sd7k]

Thank you for acknowledging not everything is anxiety

[@kelleysigler9759]

Wow. What a story to get to your ultimate diagnosis. It's such a lesson to be persistent in knowing your body and how you feel. I'm so glad you hung in there to get an answer.

[@kimsweeten1849]

Katie - thank you for taking the time to share your journey. It is invaluable to others and an example of knowing when something isn’t right. THIS is exactly what I’m trying to get my niece to understand - do NOT let your doctor pass this off as “nothing” or give a general diagnosis and do nothing while the symptoms continue. She has been dealing with symptoms since February and the doctor has done NOTHING. Thank YOU! YOU have made a difference in sharing your story. You and your husband are in my prayers.

[@4Dangert]

Bless that practitioner for acknowledging your concerns and encouraging you to go to the ER. And too the ultrasound tech and head MD for being caring.

[@kellylane128]

Goodness Katie..I just found you on tictoc and watched your videos.....GOD BLESS YOU.ILL BE PRAYING FOR YOU AND YOUR HUSBAND...💐💐💐💐💐💐

[@CHPetMom]

I loudly hear what you are saying about validation, it is such a relief to know that what we are experiencing is not something in our head, after being told for a long time that it is. I found out two years ago, that I have a genetic condition called vEDS, and all of the things that bothered me throughout my life, finally made sense. Sending you much love

[@colleenrichardson5339]

You are absolutely gorgeous and I really enjoy watching your videos💖 I couldn’t help but get emotional when you explained the story of your diagnosis.. you’re so strong! I’m so sorry it took so long for them to do that ultrasound/CT scan.. I bet it was so annoying having everyone turn you away or diagnosis it as “just anxiety.” I’m glad you finally got answers. Hope you’re doing okay💖

[@dwalker6868]

I am so happy that you finally got to the bottom of it. We definitely need to be our own Stewart’s. I’m dealing with waiting a whole year and a half knowing that I needed to do something extra as well thank you for sharing. It is very beneficial very beneficial continued health to you

[@Padawan333]

I just had my kidney and a 12 cm tumor along with lymph nodes removed. Now im just waiting for pathology report. Thank you for sharing your story. Hope you are well

[@9384cows]

You are a strong, determined, amazing woman! I wish you all the Very Best in your journey. You sound like you are actually smarter than all the doctors you saw. Wow!!! You are awesome!!! 🙏👍🥰

[@elisabettapaddon6470]

Thank you for sharing you strong beautiful women l have kidney cancer mine are both kidneys lots of tumours l been having radio frequency ablation they keep coming back l been living with kidney cancer 6 years still batting it💜

[@g.g.chavez-daniel6418]

Thanks for sharing this vital information so as to encourage women to continue seeking health even when symptoms are confusing and even when doctors are baffled.

[@linden5576]

Took the doctors 15 years to diagnose my husband with pancreatic cancer😢 He went to the doctor constantly and they blamed it on everything under the sun! Anxiety, stress, heartburn, stomach ulcers, side effects from other medication, I can’t even remember what they were because the list was so long and it was just medication after medication thrown at him. He would plead with them do something I don’t feel right, I know there’s something going on and having this issue in that issue and they any went to many many doctors and nobody wanted to listen or do anything other than just the same old thing. What could you do? Well hindsight 2020, what he could’ve done was demand to have scans! He did have a few scans but not of the pancreas! Oh, he was a terrible allergy suffer a lot of blame went on that from the doctors!! He did have some sleep apnea, they blamed a lot of it on that also. But he knew that was more and something else was going on! None of the doctors wanted to listen or figure something else out!! Until he went to his family physician that happened to be on vacation and a retired doctor filled in. That doctor noticed the jaundice right away, took his complaints and ordered a blood test. So after we left the doctors office and had the blood test we went did a little I think grocery shopping, and came home we no longer got home and the phone rang with the results! Pancreatic cancer! So scans showed that it was huge and spread to just outside his pancreas. I was extremely angry because he had played it for years! Doctor should know this stuff that’s what they’re trained in to run these tests anyway especially when you have excellent insurance!!! Course nobody survive pancreatic cancer but he got an extra year and a half with us😊 You gotta kinda be your own doctor in research and start writing things down and analyzing the symptoms and then start bringing all these things up can it be this can it be that and when doctors tell you no say well I think it kid I want something done about it some kind of a scan or test on these organs etc.!! I’m glad you’re explaining all of this in your video. Keep us all along on your journey❤ My aunt is on dialysis. My sister-in-law has had many many many surgeries to remove kidney stones. I have a kidney infection, for the second time! I have no clue what’s going on yet. E I too have had my gallbladder Removed due to total blockage of gallbladder stones. Mine was removed in 2007. Now I will tell you once your gallbladder is removed your liver who works twice as hard so you have to be careful what you eat and drink because your liver has the work to digest and put out the enzymes every time you take a bite and that puts a lot of stress on the liver! So when you start noticing that your right side is starting to ache, your liver enzymes are elevated!! You need to figure out why.

[@icediamonds11]

What was your symptoms for kidney infection?

[@shannonjhanlen]

I only just recently got diagnosed with Stage 4 Kidney cancer, and I can totally relate to everything that you said in your story there. In the past I had kidney stones, that caused blood in the urine. Every now and again I would go in and get it checked and it was always just kidney stones, so it go to the point I stopped going to the doctors when it was happening because I was afraid of coming across as a worry case and someone not to be taken seriously. Recently the blood in the urine came back, but more often and I also had severe fatigue. I finally go into the ER and get a CT scan and sure enough it's a stage 4 non clear cell carcinoma on my left kidney. I don't know what my prognosis is yet, but I am certainly extremely afraid of what it all means and how much time I do / don't have left. So please don't feel like you did the wrong thing by writing off your symptoms. A lot of people do, and then boom we are hit with this kind of news and all of a sudden we have a deal with that. I really really hope that you're able to find a treatment and care that gives you the absolute best outcome.

[@MOAB-UT]

Good for you for taking your health in your hands. I've done the same.

[@enewman2663]

I was misdiagnosed too. I had this small lump on my front head and my Dr. send me to a dermatologist, who told me that was not cancer, he said to return in 6 months to see if it had grown or shrink. In about 3 weeks later this lump/ bump grow at least 3 times bigger so I went to and Urgent care and they immediately sent me to the ER. They diagnosed me with RCC stage 4. I started immune therapy in January and it’s working I’m feeling great, also a great help is that I’m using also a combination of Holistic/alternative medicine: I V Ozone therapy and IV vitamin C 25 ml. When I started the immunotherapy I continued with my holistic therapy because is helping me no to get side effects and is working next week I will be having an EMR and the CT scan and I will know exactly how well are these two therapies are working 🙏💜

[@happycampers7889]

My mom was given anti-depressants and wound up having stage 4 non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

[@cindymaulden2226]

Thoughts & prayers for you & your family I’ll be watching your videos and hoping for a day that you say that you’re a lot better.

[@oldcollegecoed]

Sweetheart, you should NEVER be embarrassed over not knowing something! I think all young adults feel unstoppable, and the only time they do go to the doctor is when they don’t feel well! Actually, the fact that you fought to find answers proves you were proactive & incredibly mature Your story is heartbreaking, but I have faith that you will overcome this roadblock. Granted, it’s a big one, but you have so much going for you, most importantly your youth! I am sending good vibes, positive karma, lots of prayers and loads of love your way! PS It sounds like that PA at Urgent Care saved your life! I hope you have a chance to contact him & share how you feel about how he treated you!💞

[@nancyshookedoncrochet526]

Thanks for sharing your story. They found a lesion in my liver when having pre-op testing for open heart surgery. It was cyst's. I have cysts in my liver and both kidneys which are benign.

[@elizabethconroy7665]

Sorry Katie I had asked for your signs and symptoms Now find the Video Thank you 🙏

[@jaydenp4975]

Thank you so much and I’m glad I found your channel. Ultrasound revealed mass on my kidney. Don’t know what it is yet and I’m scared. Just starting this journey.

[@katiekickscancer_kidney]

Sending you all the best and hope they can help get to the bottom of it and provide answers for you quickly. I know how overwhelming it can feel when you’re left in what can often feel like a sea of the unknown

[@almor2445]

Katie ive never rooted more for a stranger than when i heard your story. Glad you stuck to your guns. ❤

[@karlaoleta6889]

Just found out I have a renal mass after going to the hospital for stomach pain. Found out I had hepatic cyst in my liver. 😢 I’m current at home with a drain in my side because of the abscess. It’s going to take about 2 months for it to clear, or so I’m told. Other than that I can’t go to an oncologist until it’s resolve. I feel like the longer the wait the least time I have. I’m constantly having panic and anxiety attacks. I’m just praying everyday. I’m glad to hear your story, it gives me a little bit of hope.

[@SaulVTXFRIDER]

How are you doing? Hope you're doing well..any updates?

[@karlaoleta6889]

I’m waiting on referral. I still have the drain. I’m still praying and hoping. Anxiety through the roof, but ok. Thank you for asking.

[@katiekickscancer_kidney]

Do you know how big the mass is they found on your kidney. If you’re on any of the other social platforms feel free to reach out to me directly. I know how stressful the wait is. The anxiety near crippled me at the time. You’re not alone and it can be so helpful to connect with others. So please feel free to reach out. All my socials can be found at www.katiekickscancer.com

[@karlaoleta6889]

The mass is 4.8 I will be getting surgery soon. They will just cut a piece of kidney instead of taking the whole thing out. Nervous but happy that it will soon be over. Thank you!

[@ritagregory5019]

Thank you so much for sharing your experience! What you went through sounds so much like what my daughter is going through now. We don’t know how to make the medical professionals listen and understand that she knows her body, and she knows something isn’t right. She’s only 34 and has been going through this for over 5 years now. If you have any suggestions, we would greatly appreciate them. I believe she reached out to you on twitter also. Thanks you! Prayers for your long & healthy life 🙏🏻🤷‍♀️

[@branejane800]

Yours is an outstanding video and thank you for making it. You have saved lives. I will forever be aware to listen for high blood pressure, abdominal pain and tachycardia as symptoms of something other than anxiety. Thank you. 🌿🐬❤️

[@paulb1912]

So sorry it took so long for your diagnosis. I'm in UK and currently been waiting 3 months and just got CT Scan for a "lesion on kidney" they found incidentally while doing an ultrasound on my private area.

[@cherishdelacruz4076]

Thank you for sharing your story. I had very similar symptoms and the feeling of just being off for a long time.

[@singers1990]

How awful and such a common journey, WHY? does this happen? We are told to listen to our bodies. I don't think it happens only to women ( go home dear, here's a pill for your anxiety, etc) I had a 19-year-old admitted one evening and every doctor who saw her asked if she was pregnant ( she was not sexually active) In the am she had a CT scan. Stage 4 ovarian cancer, it sticks in my mind 20 years later how the doctors insisted she must be pregnant.

[@lilredscout]

my besties husband. same. he is trudging as you are. Great attitude.

[@AliceStevenson-g1t]

You just told my story. Thanks! Now I don't feel so alone.And no, kidney cancer is not depression or anxiety.

[@tedjohnson64]

Very well organized and interesting video. Best wishes for a healthy future!

[@aprilwallace2791]

Great video! Very informational, and easy to follow. Hope you’re doing well!

[@MarilynMayaMendoza]

I just had to write tell you you are such a strong intelligent and caring Woman. Women are not believed in general in the medical profession. I do suffer from anxiety but I also have health challenges. We have to be advocates for ourselves until the medical profession takes. Women’s health concerns as seriously as men’s. Remember that in the 1900s women were considered hysterical and sent away for any health issue. I send you my loving prayers and healing vibes from Hawaii. Aloha

[@pslay9324]

I am so sick of the insurance companies who threaten the doctors. It's the damn insurance carriers who call the shots. Everything has a first line, second or third line therapy trial BEFORE you can get certain tests performed. I too am feeling off and have been for about 2 years not feeling good -severe back pain, extreme fatigue, no energy, pain that radiates up my arm. Just makes no sense everyone seems to want to refer us to the ER!!!!!!!!!!! Who wants to sit in the ER for 4 hours in agony and pain. I can do that at home. The ER is a holding tank for every condition of unknown origin these days .

[@Maya-Alexdog]

I don't have my tests until the 24th. But 10 months ago I went to a urologist for stabbing pains in my bladder. He was very dismissive and condescending and told me there was nothing wrong with me. Fast forward 10 months. I have blood in my urine for 4 days and he was still dismissive of me. I had been to this urologist office before I realized but I couldn't remember how long ago and I remember having Trace blood in my urine at least a couple times prior. I appreciate your story because your symptoms seem to be somewhat similar to mine. All the best to you❤

[@JeriAnnHenson]

I made it until the end, lol! I, too was soooooo super relieved when I was diagnosed. I thought my body was quitting on me for 3 years and menopause and arthritis and why can’t I control my blood sugar; so yeah super relieved!

[@yajy4501]

I’ve had weird symptoms for over a year. Fatigue, urinary issues, vision issues, elevated heart rate, GI issues… the list goes on and on. Finally they sent me to get an ultrasound to check my gallbladder and found a mass on my right kidney. They didn’t get a great look though so they’re not sure if it’s a complex cyst or a tumor, but I’m scheduled for a CT scan and some other tests. Trying not to freak out till I know as not all masses on the kidney are that dangerous. Still, with the symptoms my wheels are spinning.

[@nature_nd]

It is crazy to me how long it took to get this diagnosis correct! I think I understand why, but when you line it all up on a timeline, it's unbelievable!

[@tracywilliams61]

Thank you so much for sharing. I think back to my diagnosis and went through similar experiences. I remember getting a call after going to the ER for what I thought was an ulcer-heartburn. Doc took blood, gave me some nausea meds and sent me on my way with no thoughts, recommended I reach out to my GP for a checkup. At the checkupfollow up with my GP that lead to my diagnosis. She to sent me on my way with me thinking all was fine.. But within two days I receive a call from the doctor telling me she made an appointment for me with a hematologist/oncologist. Immediately alarm bells start going off and I asked why oncologist and do I have cancer? She tells me all looked good. However, two days go by and I get a call for her telling me she ran my blood work and symptoms by a coworker colleague… and would like me to schedule and appointment with hematology/oncology department. I remember asking why oncology? she assure tells me that ontology share office hematology RIGHT, I know now that my GP knew it was highly likely I had cancer😞. But an appointment with a oncologist. She knew but tell me. So i go to the appointment thinking it’s just another check up. the oncologist assumed my GP had told me about the possibility of cancer. To my shock, this doc starts the conversation with I have cancer. I too did not cry…I was trying to comprehend wait what… Doc tells me I needed a bone marrow biopsy and that she could do that today. I ask does it hurt? She tells me now other that a poke and she would numb the area. LET ME TELL YOU it was the worst PAIN I’ve ever experienced. They literally stick a huge needle in my leg and thru the bone. she was the worst Doc ever and ended up in a big fight with hubby about her lack of knowledge who could answer any of the questions. Needless to say she was dumped immediately.

[@Luvdiamondsandpearls]

Wow, same situation for me, but I’m much older. Lost about 50 lbs and developed anemia that wouldn’t get better. Diagnosed in Dec 2023 and started keytruda in January 2024. Hemoglobin much better now and waiting for second ct scan

[@thethirdrail8397]

I have something like as such of a calendar on your video. I have been in tons of pain from my neck down. random bones just crack/snap, break. at my least two Doc visits my BP was elevated(within the last few months). I have been in the ICU many times For about the last Five years, I Can not keep food sown. the newest Issue I have found, a swollen Neck area, with a Lump on the back left hand side of my Neck. plus, many other symptoms!

[@pamreynolds6812]

Any symptom should be investigated no matter what your age.

[@myyoutubechannel3161]

It's like people these days have to go thru soo much to find something out.. these days. Your a strong girl very strong 💪.

[@sumo479]

Thanks for sharing, I know this will help someone else.

[@carefree6252]

Thank you for sharing your story.

[@janeofthejungle4]

I made it to the end. Very helpful. Thank you 💚

[@patriciarobertson-xp1xb]

I'm watching this because for over a year I have had high blood pressure around 220/122. This past June I went to my primary care and asked for a CBC. The only thing she told me besides my hypothyroidism, high blood pressure, high bad cholesterol,was that I didn't have the best kidney function. Told me to watch my cholesterol. Four months later I went for pain, maybe kidney stones I thought. She gave me flomax. A week later I go back still having pain, she sends me to an imaging center for X-ray. Of course it showed no large stone. A week later I went back still hurting badly I asked if it could be an infection or the blood pressure medication causing problems. She said I had no infection in urine, some blood but gave me an antibiotic, and I asked could she please refer me to an urologist, she said wait until you finish the antibiotics and if you're still hurting come back to see me. A week later I go back still hurting, can't pee, she sends me to ER. They did a CT scan, no contrast and said I have low sodium and said I need to follow up with an urologist. The following day I went to my primary care nurse and asked for the results of the scan she said it would take a week and they would call me. They gave me pain meds, and new blood pressure medicine. I asked for a print out of the CBC that I had done in June. Looking over my results I found that my nurse practitioner never told me that I had stage 2 kidney disease GFR 73. She had only told me I didn't have the best kidney function. She finally referred me to the urologist, who at the moment is out of town for 3 weeks. I did see his nurse practitioner, and she said I definitely need to see him, and worked me in for the first patient when he comes back. I still have bad pain on my right side that worsens at night. Currently taking 8 different medications, one of which is for multiple sclerosis to relax muscles. I too finally went to the 'google' doctor. Turns out most medications given to me aren't recommended if you have kidney disease, and the muscle relaxer, and pain meds haven't stopped the pain. So this morning I went on KZbin and looked up kidney cancer, and if pain meds and muscle relaxers don't stop pain it could be kidney cancer, and that's how I found you. Much of what you said about weird symptoms I have had for over a year. Thank you for your information. And it's true you have to in a sense become your own doctor. We know better than anyone else when something doesn't seem quite right. I went through something similar to this many years ago. I had large bruises, blood when brushing my teeth and when shaving my legs, and other weird symptoms. Went to my doctor and he said this, and I will never forget his words. " You just read it in the newspaper or saw it on the TV and you think you have it." I found another doctor. Turns out I had West Nile Virus, low platelets 15,000 ppm, 2 cm hole in the heart, and had to have splenectomy, and heart surgery to repair the hole. I could have dropped dead was what all my specialists told me, I had five of them. Believe me I went back to my old doctor's office which was full of patients in the waiting room and he was behind the front desk, and I straight out told him it wasn't all in my head and all the things I DID have and then turned around and told everyone in there they needed to find a new doctor. Thank you again and I pray everything is going well with you and your husband. May God bless you always ❤

[@Cissi2009]

Unfortunately this happens more often than we think. I had persistent varied symptoms for a year at 26 years old, went to a few different doctors, finally one doctor took a chest X-ray and found I had Hodgkin’s, so you’re never too young to have cancer, not sure where that myth came from.

[@JuanDiazSilvermyst]

This was very useful. Thank you

[@paddypaddy2834]

This is frightening! I avoid doctors because I always get the runaround and am told it’s just “anxiety.”

[@Laurliuzz]

I’m sorry if you said it and I missed it… but did you have any imaging before your final diagnosis?

[@richforslund4713]

You mentioned increased floaters in your vision. Were you ever able to attribute those to anything? Did they go away?

[@katiekickscancer_kidney]

They went away. I’m not sure that they were from. I haven’t had them since. They were like the floaters you get when you stand up too quickly.

[@clairenicol6924]

@@katiekickscancer_kidneyI got these as well around a month after my nephrectomy. Dizzy spells too.

[@julie8810]

This video has been very helpful for me I haven't felt very good for a very long time and I'm in the early stages of getting different test runs MRIs and CAT scans and all that the reason I'm speaking this is because I cannot see animal right eye so I was therefore I can't see keyboard well enough to key so I speak it but it's been very helpful to hear all that and I'm actually got a doctor now that is really very thorough and very very compassionate and having the right direction but I just got just feeling I'd sleep all the time I have a lot of bowel problems and just just don't feel right and just it's her gut feeling no and something's wrong and we usually right

[@juliaconnell]

hey Julie, just checking in on you hun - as of last night I can read your comment, but woke up 3 or 4 weeks ago - (Tue 18 April 23) sudden change to my vision - went to being able to easily read 6 point font, to all accessibility options to 100%, font to 28 point, still blurry but could read & write - if font 28 point. last night (after numerous medical tests, trip to optometrist - paying for glasses..) just as suddenly, last night (10 May ) - oh all back to 'normal' for me. know how scary, how frustrating it is your comment says it was made 5 months ago - you ok? (oh understand the gut issue - Depression & Anxiety did that to me, then 2012, PTSD & IBS - (assault - so been through Cat scan, MRI... nerve damage to my face) then 2022 Fibromyalgia - as specialists said, body 'flicks a switch' = pain & exhaustion (yip, think I know exactly when & where & why that switch flipped, year previous). just know you are not alone hun, hope you ok, sending you love, support, understanding, caring, compassion - STRENGTH and some more love, oh and some hugs - virtual ones - so as gentle or strong as you need - as long and as often as you need ❤❤‍🩹❤

[@crystalslade8056]

This is very informative Thankyou for sharing hope ur doing ok x

[@deniset3164]

I have a stage 3 kidney tumor. ureteroscopy with biopsy. Dr tried to ablate the tumor but it was too vascular and it bled and had to stop. He put a stent in. He referred me to a dr who does robotic surgery.

[@northyland1157]

I had dark urine for months... then drank coconut water and started peeing Heavy blood with "clumps or clots". My right kidney had to be removed due to a tumor.. Biopsy came back as cancer (clear cell). Just got my 2 year check up and I''m good.. Need another 3 years of scans to be sure.. Dark urine or peeing blood.. See a urologist . My primary care dr was sending me down wrong path, Luckily I had a friend who was a urologist, who told me exactly what tests to get done. Which for me was A CT scan, which found the tumor same day.. My primary wanted me to to to ultra sound... which is more for kidney stones. Sometimes its best to skip the primary and go strait to a urologist! My only symptom was dark urine and then blood and "clumps. I felt totally fine..

[@edinafarkas5919]

I don‘t get it, why the doctors don‘t do ultrasound immediately. That‘s not that expensive and can be done in 5 minutes.

[@lll-w3w]

Subscribed just bc I like your attitude.

[@roddizon2242]

I got carcinoma cancer on my kidney, the doctor said, take the whole kidney out, but the last few months because of trearment it get smaller but my doctor keep insisting to take out the kidney I don;t know what to do ?

[@toddc6682]

Do the opposite of what the doctor says. Listen to Thomas Seyfried, metabolic therapy. No chemo. No radiation.

[@alexeome]

I think the biggest problem is that you are so young so you got misdiagnosed with other things that are statistically more likely with your age group. you knew something was wrong though. I am confused why they waited so long for a ultrasound and CT scan, surely that would be done quickly if you presented with several unexplained symptoms. It is good you share this, as it will help others that recognise these symptoms, and help them understand the medical timeline better. I don’t think healthcare should be such a battle, you shouldn’t have to fight to get a simple diagnosis. I am angry with them for making you feel like a hypochondriac when you were really unwell.

[@sheriskousen4863]

I was told I had anxiety causing heart symptoms for 40 years until a smart cardiologist diagnosed me with a genetic heart condition. Hocm

[@deniset3164]

So did you have your kidney removed ?

[@SisterPatGoad]

Did you have COVID at anytime during all this time?

[@Sabouma28]

how is COVID related to cancer? That makes NO sense whatsoever

[@pbeccas]

My diagnosis was crazy. I had no symptoms, I did not feel sick. I work as a police officer. One night we were called to assist paramedics who were trying to deal with a meth addict. I ended up getting assaulted and took an injury to my abandoned. I had an ultrasound for the injury and incidentally they found I had a 11cm tumour in my left kidney. And my life went south after that.

[@anglophils645]

How are you feeling now? Any progress with your diagnosis and treatment? Be aware that kidney cancer is highly treatable, and many people live for decades with it.

[@pbeccas]

@@anglophils645 I had my second cancerversary last month. From taking my kidney out I had 12 months NED. Then it popped up in my right lung and right shoulder. I am booked in for a shoulder replacement next month. Immunotherapy did not work for me. I’m on sutent now.

[@jamessmithfightingcancerwi5317]

@@pbeccas I'm 3 years on with terminal diagnosis kidney metastatic cancer spread to right lung pancreas and windpipe keep strong and positive my friend all the best for the future 🙏💪💪💪🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@pbeccas]

@@jamessmithfightingcancerwi5317 you too James, fight this terrible sneaky disease.

[@jamessmithfightingcancerwi5317]

@@pbeccas 👊👊👍👍

[@kimberkiefer6886]

yes push for scans when something isn't right...hopefully just to rule things out.

[@MrBDezno]

Women do get less respect at doctors offices for whatever reason. *I especially hear stories of dismissing symptoms if the woman is overweight.

[@californiadoll6273]

Not meant to be rude, noone listens to a push over. SPEAK UP ane stop being so nice. You are paying them to figure out whats wrong & how to treat it. I'm glad you finally found out what was wrong.

[@joselyneffio6108]

Hey i am a hypochondriac unfortunately and i know the shame that comes with it

[@billhillard]

I was just diagnosed with kidney cancer. Fun times... (edit) I will add this -- when the doctors do not know what is wrong you with you they ALWAYS say "anxiety."

[@clairenicol6924]

I’m 3 years in remissions from an 8.5cm grade 3 tumour on my kidney

[@billhillard]

@@clairenicol6924 Thank god!!!!!! Stay well! Good luck.

[@tatianaschoenfield9819]

Sorry to learn about your journey…what do you think now is the question for other people who go through the same situations, request detailed bloodwork or full body MRI? I don’t know why the doctors have these barriers that prevents them to investigate, is it the fear of not being reimbursed by insurance or what are their personal barriers? I mean children can get cancer, so why not a “healthy” young woman in her 20s . I guess the cancer already has to grow out of your body and be visible in order to be taken serious. I think the doctors failed you. Sorry, I just want to help other people to advocate for themselves.

[@bettyfuller6940]

I have read read many others who had the same symptoms as you But it was from 💉damage.

[@crystalslade8056]

Dr Google is terrible I’m the worst for worrying myself sick x

[@preciousdiamond76]

Been experiencing same thing. Dr now thinks I've got a kidney tumour & CT scan confirm one in abdo but had severe infection for 8 months. Scan now TOMOZ and camera in bladder 2 & tubes to kidney.. Thanks for doing this just seen it, but appreciate it. I have a partner & one niece N brother but have lost my whole family so no support network due to caring and losing mom dad kids and sister & her kids. Anyway thanks for the info xx

[@AnnHelenaSchlueter]

Women always excuse when they Need something, they Are nervous and nervous - I am sorry that I exist …

[@livincountry]

Your volume needs to be higher

[@hedayattttt]

❤

[@marilyntonelli8832]

Of course those were all symptoms.

[@wetyuu]

The medical system sucks.

[@juliaconnell]

WOW - Katie/KC, what a epic, horrendous journey you had (just watched the Chubby Emu/ Dr. Bernard Hsu episode) and lots of LOVE, support, strength - all you been through ❤❤‍🩹❤ - thank all things good you're ok (or as ok as you can be after such trauma, not just physically - mentally, emotionally) - *thank you* for sharing your story - so grateful you not only survived - are helping & advocating for others. such an inspiration - had my own battles advocating for myself, trusting my instincts, when told 'this' AND 'that' - confusing, contradictory information. other times, told "NO" so many times, until found right person who _listened_ to me, my concerns. one example - just one - (7 years - 7 YEARS - 4 doctors said 'no' - " 'THEY" will not see you" "I will NOT refer you" - 'they' being the sleep team - when 'they' did see me (triage nurse - sleep clinic team - then specialist team at hospital - all said [what bullsh!te] - we WANT to see you _because of_ (excess weight) - reason I had been denied referral. oh _eventually, 7 years, 4 doctors later, diagnosed with severe sleep apnea start of 2020, think my 'score' was 20 - so for every hour/60 miniues, I had 20 incidents where I stopped breathing (well no wonder I was so exhausted all the time...) (thanks to a new doctor in 2018, end of 2017, asked the nurses - (just as I did last week, she has left this practice start of this year) - seen 4 different doctors already this year - sent to ER twice (March & May - not sleep related - triaged over phone by nurse/paramedic) - oh and chest x-ray (if the FIRST doctor I had seen start of March has _listened_ to me - I'm prone to upper respiratory infections, can't take penicillin - last time (late 2020) - was prescribed 'this' - brought in empty container from 2020, nope - did not listen.... last GP I saw for 'that' - prescribed what I had asked first GP for - and by that stage, so bad, steroids, plus inhaler, plus trip to hospital get x-ray as a precaution) (this battle, that battle, other battle, none cancer (touch wood, fingers crossed) - bad enough, your situation nightmare upon nightmare! - , love, support ❤❤‍🩹❤ my journey, nothing like yours - *thank you* - you are such an inspiration 💖💗💖 I'll remember you & your journey next time I need to go into battle (hopefully never again, 'hope for the best, prepare for the worst'...) - listen to ME, trust my instincts

[@deeprollingriver52]

❤