Mariel’s Story

Ewing’s sarcoma at the rib
Age at Diagnosis: 13
Date of Diagnosis: 2000
Location: Florida
Hospital: Jackson Memorial

Diagnosis: I was just 13 years of age when some medical problems started to arise. I had a bad cough, shortness of breath, pain and a lump in my right 6th rib. But I just thought it was something that would go away. Things started to get worst and my parents took me to the hospital, they decided to take an MRI, Radiography, CAT scan etc. They saw a tumor on my 6th rib; they rushed me to the operating room and got the lump removed, and it turn out it was cancer. My parents brought me to the U.S to seek medical treatment, where they confirmed the diagnosis: Ewing’s sarcoma. They started the treatment right away; I had lots of side effects and my hair fell. Thanks to God it’s been 6 years since I’ve been free of the malignancy. It was a very difficult time for me and my family, not just because I had cancer, also because we were in another country totally different from ours.

Treatment: I had my 6th rib removed totally, and I also had surgery for the implantation of the port. I had one year of chemotherapy (vincristine,doxurubicin,vp16). Thanks to God I never received a transfusion. I also received radiation therapy (37 sessions).

Recovery: I had a great recovery, and I feel great. Sometimes due to my surgery of the rib I feel pain in the area.

Life now: Now I am living my life to praise God. Every day I give thanks to him for saving me from this disease. I got married just a month ago and I am living a very happy life. I graduated in clinical psychology, but I discovered that my passion is to help others. That’s why now I am studying to be a Register Nurse.

Thoughts and Hints for New Patients: All your fears and anxiety – put it in God’s hand. Always think positive. This experience of having cancer made me see life in a more mature way. Something very important is nutrition during your treatment. That helped me through my treatment. I eliminated all junk food from my diet and ate vegetables and lots of fruits. I hope this help. God Bless You All.