Woman Overcomes Rare Cancer Diagnosis After Misleading Symptoms
Angela Read, a 54-year-old resident of Phoenix, Arizona, has faced significant changes in her life after being diagnosed with olfactory neuroblastoma, a rare form of cancer. This diagnosis came at age 50, following a series of symptoms she initially attributed to a sinus infection. Read’s journey began in 2020 when she noticed unusual congestion on one side of her nose, which she initially thought she could manage on her own.
As time passed, her symptoms escalated, leading to a loss of taste and heightened concern. When a local physician examined her, he discovered a mass in her nasal cavity that warranted immediate attention. A biopsy revealed the tumor was malignant, marking the start of a challenging medical journey for Read.
Diagnosing a Rare Condition
Read’s condition was alarming, particularly because olfactory neuroblastoma accounts for only 3% of nasal cavity tumor cases, affecting approximately 1 in 2.5 million people annually, according to the National Cancer Institute. The initial diagnosis raised numerous questions for Read, who had enjoyed good health throughout her life.
“I had no idea I would be the person to receive such news,” she recalled. Feeling overwhelmed, Read took it upon herself to research her diagnosis and seek out specialized treatment options. She quickly learned that her case was unique, as most individuals with this diagnosis wait an average of two years from the onset of symptoms to confirmation of the disease.
Fortunately, Read’s cancer had not spread beyond the primary tumor, and she was determined to find the best medical team to address her situation. After consulting with multiple specialists, she chose to pursue treatment at Johns Hopkins in Maryland, where the team had been researching her specific condition.
Undergoing Treatment
Read’s treatment plan included surgery and radiation therapy. Her first surgery took place on February 1, 2021, followed by a second operation one week later. Both surgeries were extensive, lasting up to 18 hours, during which pathologists conducted regular biopsies to ensure the complete removal of cancerous tissue.
“Those were very long days in the operating room,” Read said, expressing her gratitude for the surgeons’ expertise. Following her surgeries, she underwent proton radiation treatment for five weeks, requiring her and her husband to relocate temporarily to Maryland.
Now cancer-free, Read continues to travel to Johns Hopkins for regular check-ups and scans. Although she could have pursued care closer to home, she chose to maintain contact with the same medical team that saved her life.
Despite the challenges she faces, including the impact of radiation on her tear ducts and a collapsed septum, Read remains resilient. The loss of her sense of smell has necessitated lifestyle adjustments, but she approaches her new reality with acceptance.
Reflecting on her journey, Read highlights a significant moment during treatment when she visited the cherry blossoms in Washington, D.C., a poignant reminder of her childhood. “It felt like a bit of a wink that he was right there with me,” she said, recalling the fond memories of being with her late father.
Angela Read’s story serves as a testament to the importance of vigilance and awareness regarding health symptoms. Her experience underscores how crucial it is for patients to advocate for themselves and seek timely medical attention, especially when faced with unusual or persistent symptoms.
