Bailey McBreen, a 25-year-old woman from Florida, never imagined that her persistent burping could be a sign of something much more serious. For months, she brushed off the symptom, thinking it was just a minor issue. However, as the burping continued and was accompanied by acid reflux and excruciating stomach cramps, McBreen knew she needed to seek medical attention.
Her decision to get checked proved to be a lifesaver. After a series of tests, including a CT scan, McBreen was diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer. The news came as a huge shock to her and her family. As a nurse, McBreen had always been attuned to her body, but she never suspected that her symptoms could be linked to cancer.
McBreen’s journey with cancer has been a challenging one. She underwent emergency surgery to remove the tumor and is currently undergoing chemotherapy. Despite the difficulties she has faced, McBreen is determined to raise awareness about the importance of listening to one’s body. She believes that her experience can serve as a warning to others to take their symptoms seriously, no matter how minor they may seem.
In retrospect, McBreen realizes that her persistent burping was likely linked to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which was a symptom of her colon cancer. Her oncologist confirmed that the burping was likely the start of her symptoms, which eventually led to a complete bowel obstruction.
McBreen’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of being proactive about one’s health. By sharing her experience, she hopes to encourage others to listen to their bodies and seek medical attention if something feels off. As McBreen navigates her journey with cancer, she remains committed to spreading awareness and inspiring others to take control of their health.
