In honor of National Young Adult Cancer Awareness Week (April 2-8), CHOC Children’s patient, Kenia Gonzalez, shares her story of how she coped with her diagnosis and went on to beat cancer. She wants young cancer patients to know “you are never alone!”
My name is Kenia Gonzalez and I am nineteen years old. I was first diagnosed with ovarian cancer when I was seventeen. I was a senior at Century High School, a straight-A student who was involved in different activities, including captain of the volleyball team, when I found out my life was going to change completely.
I remember having a meeting with my parents and my doctor about what I was diagnosed with and what was going to happen next. At first, I felt overwhelmed by my whole situation since everything was happening so fast. It was a lot to take in because I was told about chemotherapy and its effects, and the limitations that I was going to have.
Getting diagnosed with ovarian cancer was not only tough for me to take in but I felt it was also very hard for my family – especially my parents. My parents are very strong people and I know they tried to be stronger for me. What motivated me to fight and not give up, were my parents because I knew I had to stay strong not only for myself but also for them. I was not going to let this disease defeat me and what helped me keep a positive attitude was the fact that I knew that I had complete support from my family, friends, classmates, and teachers. Most importantly, I knew my family was behind me every step of the way.
I feel completely blessed with all the support I received and I am proud to say I have been cancer free for two years. I am now attending college, working, and enjoying the opportunity I was given. I understand that not everyone who is unfortunately diagnosed with any type of cancer has the same reaction, but I just want to say to anyone who is having difficulties, to never give up and always keep trying, especially if it is something as valuable as their life, and to know that they are never alone.
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Learn more about the Hyundai Cancer Center at CHOC
CHOC Hospital was named one of the nation’s best children’s hospitals by U.S. News & World Report in its 2023-24 Best Children’s Hospitals rankings and ranked in the cancer specialty.
