09/09/2025
💙Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month 💙
This week, we’re honored to share the powerful story of someone very dear to us — Brandi, one of our beloved pharmacy technicians. She’s been part of our Semmes Pharmacy family for years, and her strength, humor, and heart are unmatched.
Today, she’s bravely sharing her story in her own words:
My Survivor Story
By Brandi
In April of 2007, I turned 24 years old—young, full of plans, with my whole life ahead of me. Just a few weeks later, everything changed.
In May, I woke up in excruciating pain, unlike anything I had ever felt before. I went to my regular doctor, who thought it might be a kidney infection and prescribed medication. But I was told, “If it gets worse, go to the ER.” The next day, I found myself in the emergency room. After tests that showed nothing, I was called back for an ultrasound the following day. That’s when they found it—an ovarian cyst.
Within six hours, I was rushed into exploratory surgery. What they discovered was shocking: the cyst wasn’t just a cyst—it was ovarian cancer. And it wasn’t small. It weighed 28 pounds, and it was the size of three basketballs.
When I woke up, my body bore the scars of the battle—67 staples lined my stomach. But that was only the beginning. The next six months were filled with chemotherapy, a journey of both physical and emotional pain and exhaustion. I lost not only my strength, but pieces of myself I thought I’d never get back.
Then, in January of 2008, came another life-altering moment: a complete hysterectomy. Because of the type of cancer I had and the risk of it returning, it was the only option. At just 24 years old, I faced the reality that I would never have children of my own. It was heartbreaking—but it saved my life.
Today, I am a survivor. My story isn’t just about the pain, the surgeries, or the chemo. It’s about resilience. It’s about learning that life can change in an instant, but strength can carry you through the darkest days.
I tell my story not just for myself, but for others—to raise awareness, to give hope, and to remind every woman to listen to her body. If something feels wrong, push for answers. Because early detection saves lives. When I was diagnosed, I didn't know the symptoms of ovarian cancer, but after my diagnosis and reading up on this awful disease, turns out I had every symptom!
Awareness is key, and could save your life!
I am here.
I am alive.
And I am proof that even in the face of the unthinkable, survival is possible.
We are so proud of Brandi and grateful for her openness in sharing her journey. Please help us spread awareness this month — you never know whose life it might save.
