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How did I survive a 10-pound ovarian tumor I didn't know I had?

Community Member

2 months ago

Good morning everyone, I am new here. In March I had a granulosa cell tumor removed from my left ovary. It was cancer. They removed both ovaries and Tubes. When this was determined, I was sent to an oncologist who confirmed cancer and she completed my hysterectomy and also removed my omentum. They were able to remove all cancer. They consider me stage 1A right now, and I'm only under observation every 4-6 months for the rest of my life, to make sure nothing returns. My tumor was almost 10 pounds. I started having severe pain on my right side (tumor was on left ovary) Went to ER multiple times thinking it was my gallbladder. They kept telling me everything on that side was good. Liver, pancreas, gallbladder, kidney, all of it. The last time I went in February, I told them I wasn't leaving until they found out what was wrong with me. They did a CT scan, and it popped off the screen, that's how big it was. Size of a football. It was pushing all my organs up into my right side making the pain. I'm glad I made them check.If that would have burst I would not be here. I am a survivor and it's crazy. Had it, didn't know I had it and then got rid of it. About 12 weeks recovery from all the surgeries. It's crazy to think. Survivor. I just wanted to share. Most people don't understand my situation. Thank you for listening!

3 comments

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Accepted Answer

What an incredible journey and testament to the importance of advocating for yourself when something doesn't feel right. Your persistence in the emergency room likely saved your life, and that kind of self-advocacy is so important for others in this community to hear about. The fact that you went through such major surgeries and are now in the survivorship phase shows tremendous strength, and sharing your experience here helps others understand they're not alone in facing unexpected diagnoses and complex treatment paths.

3+ patients found this helpful

Community Member

2 months ago

I am 55 years old with a similar situation. My ovarian cancer was at stage 2 so they did the surgery and six rounds of chemo after. It's been since last March that I had chemo, but all the symptoms and side effects I got from chemo have stayed with me. I have chronic fatigue and dizzy spells, I have decided that I don't feel comfortable driving. I used to work two jobs now I can barely do 12-20 hours a week. As brutal as it has been, I decided to do things that give my life purpose like volunteering. I have hobbies and I like to work in the garden, it's really keeping me upbeat and on track. Sending you all of my positive energy, best of luck to you

Community Member

2 months ago

Community Member

a month ago

@Jennifer Glad you insured, crazy how it’s so easy to dismiss a patient and how we go along bc of fear of being labeled ‘difficult’. Courage, eventually it gets easier and from 'surviving' you start dreaming about 'thriving'. Diagnosed Feb 23 surgery July 23 Finished treatment 2 years ago Nov 23 A

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How did I survive a 10-pound ovarian tumor I didn't know I had?

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