Vanessa Mann

Name: Vanessa Mann

Age: 37

Hometown: Hamilton, ON

What was your diagnosis? Neuroendocrine carcinoma

What is your occupation? To be the best mom I can be

Your Cancer experience:

How did you find out you were sick? What led to your diagnosis?

I was having a lot of upper abdominal pain, flushing, and upset bowels. Eventually an ultrasound showed gallstones, and enlarged lymph nodes. My family doctor quickly referred me to a gastroenterologist. It was my GI doctor that ordered the CT, which showed a tumour in my small bowel and spots on my liver, as well as a gallbladder full of tiny gallstones.

What year was it? What was your age at the time?

I was diagnosed in 2007, I was 33-years-old.

In which hospitals were you treated?

I was initially seen at McMaster University Hospital, then referred to the Juravinski Cancer Centre, then referred to the London Cancer Centre where I am now followed and treated by an oncologist who specializes in my specific type of cancer.

What were your first thoughts when diagnosed? 

I was in shock. I couldn’t believe it. I was numb for a couple of weeks (I even planned my funeral), before I decided I couldn’t give up. I had twin three-year-olds and a loving husband who needed me.

How did your family react?

We were all sad.

How did your friends react? Were you treated differently, or did things remain the same?  

My true friends were there for me, and continue to offer support (even if they do not realize it). I pushed some friends away, as I only wanted to be surrounded by people who truly knew me.

What did your treatment consist of?

I have had three major surgeries. Six feet of my small bowel removed as well as many lymph nodes.

I am currently on “chemo” Sandostatin LAR

It continues to be an emotional roller coaster. I have good days and bad days. I try to hide my discomfort and sadness, especially from my children.

What is your current medical status?

I continue to fight back at this disease. My disease has metastasized to my liver. I have carcinoid syndrome, which is caused from the release of hormones from the neuroendocrine tumours. Unfortunately this disease can hide very well. The microscopic tumours are often not visible on a regular CT or MRI.

How is life different for you now post diagnosis?

It is very different. I am extremely tired all the time. I take one day at a time. I appreciate the little things in life. And I am thankful to be here, at this moment.

What is the toughest part of your challenge?

Knowing I may not be around long enough to experience special moments of my children’s lives.

What really motivates you?

My children, my husband, and family motivate me to continue fighting.

What are your thoughts and feelings about your illness now?  How have they changed since before your diagnosis?

I am more angry now then I was in the beginning. I just wish I could have a normal life, and not the heavy burden and worries that come with this cancer.

What are some (if there are any you know of) preventative measures that people can take to lower their risk of having an experience like yours?  

If you think or you are diagnosed with IBS, investigate it further. Many people are misdiagnosed with having IBS as a lot of the symptoms are the same.

Did you attend any support groups during your challenge?

I do regularly attend online and personal support groups. I find them very helpful and informative. It is nice to feel you are not alone.

How are you connected with Young Adult Cancer Canada?

I heard about it YACC through an individual that belongs to an online support forum that I also belong to.

If you are interested in connecting with Vanessa Mann please email connect@youngadultcancer.ca.