**A Brave Fight Against Cancer: Amber Woods Shares Her Battle and Raises Awareness**
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Amber Woods, a graduate and former contestant on ‘X Factor Malta,’ has opened up about her harrowing journey with stage 4 pancreatic cancer, a diagnosis she received at just 25 years old. Her story brings to light the urgency of early cancer detection and the need for patients to advocate for their health.
Woods, whose real name is Amber Fisher, began experiencing severe health issues in spring 2023, shortly after completing her college education. While seeking roles in social media marketing and music, she found herself increasingly unwell. Despite persistent symptoms, doctors attributed her discomfort to less serious conditions such as acid reflux. “They were telling me it’s normal,” Woods recalled. “But I knew something wasn’t right.”
As her symptoms escalated—leading to debilitating breathlessness during walks and severe bloating—Woods’ concerns were continuously dismissed. After months of frustration and exhaustive consultations, she finally received a devastating diagnosis: pancreatic cancer metastasised to her liver. “I was in shock,” she said. “I thought they must have made a mistake.”
Reflecting on her diagnosis, Woods acknowledges the insidious nature of pancreatic cancer. “It’s often referred to as the silent killer because symptoms can go unnoticed until it’s too late,” she explained. Her mission now is to encourage others to be vigilant and persistent in seeking medical care.
Woods’ ordeal began to intensify around the New Year, with severe vomiting prompting an emergency room visit. Initially, doctors suspected pregnancy and later considered parasites, but a CT scan revealed the gravity of her condition. “When the doctor calmly told me I had cancer, I couldn’t believe it,” Woods shared. “I kept thinking, how could this happen to me?”
After a distressing night in the hospital, where the stark reality of her diagnosis set in, Woods received a semblance of hope through a second opinion from oncologist Dr. Shruti Patel at Stanford University. “She told me: ‘We’re going to help you,’” Woods recalled, noting the relief of being seen as a person instead of a statistic.
Since starting chemotherapy in January, Woods has faced a new set of challenges, including extreme fatigue and nausea. “I want to enjoy life, but some days I’m too tired to do anything,” she said, underscoring the difficult balance between treatment and her desire for normalcy.
With treatment ongoing, Woods eagerly awaits positive results to understand how the chemotherapy is affecting her tumours. “If the treatment works, surgery could be an option,” she explained. “It’s a big surgery, but I keep reminding myself it’s worth it if I can live a longer, cancer-free life.”
In addition to her physical challenges, Woods has also grappled with emotional burdens. “I feel guilty for my family, who are facing this with me. I’m always trying to comfort them,” she admitted. Yet, amid her struggles, the support from loved ones—including her mother and stepbrother—has been invaluable. “I honestly don’t know how people go through this without a support system,” she reflected.
Emphasising the importance of family medical history, Woods recently discovered that she carries Lynch syndrome, a genetic condition increasing cancer risk. This revelation has prompted her to advocate for annual screenings and greater awareness among her relatives.
As she navigates her illness, Woods remains committed to her passion for music and raising awareness about pancreatic cancer. “I want others to know that if you feel something isn’t right, don’t hesitate to push for answers,” she urged. A dedicated social media account has become a platform for sharing her story, encouraging others to advocate for their health.
Looking ahead, Woods envisions a future supporting cancer awareness initiatives. “I feel like I could help others who are experiencing what I am,” she said, expressing gratitude for organisations like the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network. To assist with her medical expenses, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched by her family.
Maintaining a positive outlook, Woods strives to avoid dwelling on the grim statistics associated with pancreatic cancer. “I remind myself I’m not a statistic, I’m a survivor,” she asserted. “Others are living proof that survival is possible.”
As Amber Woods continues her fight against cancer, her determination to raise awareness and support others battling similar challenges remains unwavering. “This is not the end for me,” she concluded. With resilience and hope, Woods aims to inspire and advocate, all while pursuing her dreams in music and life.