A young teenage girl, Hanna Bordage, was recently diagnosed with cancer after noticing a strange symptom that occurred whenever she consumed alcohol. Hanna, a high school graduate who had just started university in New Brunswick, Canada, where she was also a member of the varsity soccer team, initially attributed her symptoms to the stress and changes associated with transitioning to university life. Despite feeling constantly fatigued and not performing at her best, she continued with her daily routine until she started experiencing chronic neck pain with no apparent cause.
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As a pre-med student aspiring to become a doctor, Hanna was vigilant about her health and sought answers to the underlying cause of her neck pain. She noticed that whenever she drank alcohol, she would experience aching pains in her shoulder and neck within five to ten minutes, a symptom she found particularly peculiar. Alongside the neck pain, she also experienced night sweats, which she initially dismissed as being due to the warmer dorm temperature compared to her childhood home. It wasn’t until an incident during soccer practice where she was hit in the head that she was examined by a doctor.
During the medical examination for a possible concussion, doctors discovered a heart murmur in Hanna. Further tests, including an echocardiogram (ECHO), an electrocardiogram (EKG), and an MRI, revealed a shocking discovery – a 12-centimeter tumor near her heart. Initially suspected to be blood cancer, it was later confirmed as a late stage of Hodgkin Lymphoma after a biopsy. Common symptoms of this cancer include swollen lymph nodes, fever, night sweats, and lethargy, aligning with Hanna’s experience.
Despite the devastating diagnosis, Hanna remained resilient and credits her family, friends, and soccer team for their unwavering support throughout her journey. Her positive attitude and determination led her to share her cancer journey on social media, where she documented her treatment and offered guidance to other teenagers battling similar illnesses. Strangers facing cancer often reach out to Hanna for advice and support, appreciating her openness and willingness to help others going through challenging times.
After undergoing twelve rounds of chemotherapy following her late-stage diagnosis, Hanna marked a significant milestone by ringing the bell on June 29, 2023, signifying the end of her cancer treatment. She recently celebrated her two-year “cancerversary,” reflecting on her journey and newfound perspective towards life. Despite the challenges she faced, Hanna remains determined to pursue a career in the medical field, focusing on researching the specific type of cancer she battled and becoming a patient advocate.
Hanna’s story serves as an inspirational tale of resilience, strength, and hope in the face of adversity. Her experience underscores the importance of advocating for oneself, seeking medical help for any unusual symptoms, and remaining positive throughout tough times. As she continues her studies and aims to attend medical school, Hanna strives to make a difference in the lives of other patients by providing them with the same level of care and support she received during her own battle with cancer.
In a world where cancer diagnoses can be daunting and life-altering, Hanna’s story shines as a beacon of courage and determination, reminding us all that with perseverance and support, even the darkest of times can lead to moments of triumph and resilience. Hanna’s journey is a testament to the power of hope and the indomitable human spirit in the face of adversity.