In 2021, Michelle Hughes, a 34-year-old mother from Canada, collapsed and was diagnosed with an ultra-rare sarcoma called epithelioid hemangioendothelioma (EHE). Doctors initially gave her a grim prognosis of three to five years to live, but a sarcoma expert gave her hope by sharing stories of patients who had lived for 20 years with the same cancer. Determined to thrive, Hughes began a journey of self-discovery and resilience. Despite the uncertainty of her condition, she refused to let cancer define her and focused on living life for her children.
Hughes’ battle with EHE began during her pregnancy in 2016 when she experienced sharp pains in her abdomen, which doctors initially attributed to a gallbladder issue. Over the years, the pain persisted, and she underwent ultrasounds that revealed a non-cancerous mass on her liver. However, after giving birth to her children, the pain worsened, and she was eventually diagnosed with EHE after collapsing at home. Doctors found tumors in her lungs, liver, thigh, and knee, giving her a bleak prognosis. Despite this, a sarcoma specialist’s optimistic outlook shifted Hughes’ mindset and inspired her to fight back against the cancer.
Hughes underwent an experimental treatment that stabilized her cancer and allowed her to pursue an active lifestyle. She began running, biking, and swimming, using exercise as a way to cope with her physical and mental pain. Embracing activities that made her feel alive, she worked towards being the person who thrived with EHE, challenging herself to live fully despite the challenges she faced. Her determination to live for her children and create lasting memories led her to share her journey on social media, changing perceptions of what it means to live with Stage 4 cancer.
Epithelioid hemangioendothelioma is a rare cancer that primarily affects individuals aged 30 to 50, with only one in one million people worldwide being diagnosed with this condition. Symptoms can include coughing, breathing difficulties, abdominal pain, fever, swelling, and unexplained weight loss. Treatment options for EHE vary, with some patients undergoing surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, or targeted therapy. Due to the rarity of the cancer, monitoring growth is also a common approach, as in Hughes’ case.
Despite facing setbacks in her treatment, Hughes continues to live life to the fullest, celebrating milestones like finishing a triathlon on the third anniversary of her diagnosis. Her journey of resilience, determination, and hope serves as an inspiration to others facing similar challenges. By choosing to live life out loud, Hughes is reshaping the narrative around Stage 4 cancer, showing that it is possible to thrive and find joy in the midst of adversity. Her story highlights the power of positivity, perseverance, and the importance of embracing every moment with gratitude and resilience.
