Mia Cassella
About Me
When it comes to your health, no one knows your body better than you do. This is a lesson I learned the hard way through my journey of identifying and treating cancer. I want to share my story in hopes of inspiring you to listen to your body, trust your instincts, and advocate for yourself.
How This Started
It all started with facial rashes that appeared every time I was exposed to sunlight. These rashes spread across my face, were intensely itchy, and caused a burning sensation. Despite consulting several specialists, no one could determine the cause.
What I Noticed
Over time, the rashes persisted, and new symptoms emerged, including severe nighttime itching and drenching night sweats. I rationalized these as anxiety or being a “hot sleeper,” but they were warnings I didn’t yet understand.
My Decisions Along the Way
It wasn’t until May 2024, after months of worsening symptoms and my dad’s insistence on a CT scan, that I finally received a diagnosis: lymphoma. By then, the lymph nodes in my chest were three times their normal size.
Why It Was Easy to Wait
I rationalized my symptoms as anxiety or being a “hot sleeper,” and multiple doctors insisted I was too young and healthy to have anything serious, even after my dad raised concerns about lymphoma.
The Moment Things Changed
My dad’s insistence on a CT scan, after months of dismissal from doctors, is what finally led to my diagnosis.
What Happened Next
Doctors dismissed my symptoms, insisting I was too young and healthy to have anything serious. Even when my dad voiced concerns about lymphoma, they were waved off.
What Would Have Helped Sooner
Doctors taking my symptoms seriously the first time, rather than dismissing them because of my age, would have led to a diagnosis months earlier.
What I Learned and What I Want Others to Know
Looking back, I realize how the 3 Steps Detect approach — “Know Your Great,” “Use the 2-Week Rule,” and “Share With Your Doctor” — could have helped me identify my cancer much sooner. Recognizing persistent symptoms and seeking answers could have led to an earlier, lower-stage diagnosis and faster treatment. The biggest takeaway from my journey is this: you are your best advocate. If something feels off, don’t ignore it or accept dismissive answers. Keep pushing for tests and second opinions if needed.
Changes I Noticed
Night sweats, Rashes, Redness.
