Two weeks after giving birth to her son in 2021, Michelle Hughes collapsed and was diagnosed with an incurable and rare cancer called epithelioid hemangioendothelioma. Doctors initially gave her a bleak prognosis of only three to five years to live, but she found hope after meeting with a sarcoma specialist who had treated patients with her type of cancer. Determined to live for her children, Hughes focused on living her life to the fullest despite the uncertainty of her condition.
Despite experiencing sharp pains during her first pregnancy in 2016, Hughes was initially misdiagnosed with a gallbladder issue. The pain persisted over the years, eventually leading to the discovery of liver tumors after the birth of her third child. Her diagnosis came as a shock, but she refused to accept the grim outlook provided by some doctors. Through a combination of experimental treatments and lifestyle changes, Hughes was able to stabilize her cancer and pursue activities that brought her joy.
Epithelioid hemangioendothelioma is a rare cancer that primarily affects individuals aged 30 to 50 and most commonly occurs in the liver, lungs, and bones. Symptoms may include coughing, breathing difficulties, swelling, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss. Treatment options for EHE vary and often involve a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or targeted therapy. In some cases, monitoring the growth of tumors is recommended, as in Hughes’ case.
After undergoing an experimental treatment for three years, Hughes decided to stop due to severe side effects. Despite recent growth in her tumors, she remains optimistic and continues to focus on living her life to the fullest. She completed a triathlon on the third anniversary of her diagnosis, showcasing her strength and determination. Hughes hopes to inspire others facing similar challenges and break the stigma surrounding Stage 4 cancer by sharing her journey on social media.
By choosing to “live her life out loud,” Hughes aims to create lasting memories for her children and challenge perceptions of what it means to live with a terminal illness. She emphasizes the importance of doing what brings joy and finding purpose in each day. Despite the challenges she faces, Hughes remains grateful for the moments she has and encourages others to embrace life fully. Through her resilience and positive mindset, she hopes to change the narrative surrounding cancer and inspire others to live their lives authentically.
