A 28-year-old fitness enthusiast has shared her harrowing experience of how her cancer symptoms went unrecognized for nearly a year before she received a diagnosis for an exceptionally rare form of the illness.

Gianna Cericola, residing in Philadelphia, first noticed symptoms such as a burning sensation during urination and persistent abdominal discomfort.

Concerned about her health, this otherwise healthy graphic designer sought help at her local emergency room. After an ultrasound, the doctors concluded nothing was amiss and suggested it might be a urinary tract infection.

Gianna mentioned that, strangely, her symptoms subsided, but about six months later, she began experiencing unexplained fainting spells.

Despite multiple visits to the ER, her symptoms were repeatedly attributed to fatigue. However, during a later visit, doctors discovered an 8cm mass in her abdominal region during an ultrasound.

Initially, medical professionals suggested it might be a benign ovarian cyst and assured her there was ‘nothing to worry about.’

It was only later that they realized the tumor was bleeding internally, leading to her fainting episodes.

After undergoing emergency surgery, Gianna received the shocking news that she had cancer, although the specific type remained uncertain at that point.

Gianna Cericola from Philadelphia noted a burning sensation during bathroom visits and stomach pain as her first symptoms

Reflecting on the timeline, Gianna stated, “I waited quite a long time, about a month, for my diagnosis. They were uncertain, and the cancer was categorized as unclassified.”

‘The wait to learn what kind of cancer I had was incredibly frightening,’ she expressed, before ultimately discovering she had desmoplastic small round cell tumor (DSRCT).

This rare and aggressive cancer has been documented to affect only around 200 individuals globally since its identification in 1989.

Typically, DSRCT impacts those between the ages of 20 and 30, and is more prevalent in men.

Common symptoms can include abdominal pain, constipation, bloating, and sudden weight loss. According to the Cleveland Clinic, survival statistics indicate that 15% to 38% of individuals diagnosed with DSRCT survive five years post-diagnosis.

Currently, Gianna is undergoing a chemotherapy regimen at Fox Chase Cancer Center that spans seven months, with potential radiation therapy and further surgery looming in her future.

Describing her treatment journey, she said, “My schedule includes two days in the hospital followed by ten days at home.”

Gianna conveyed that the wait to learn about her cancer type was terrifying, but she was ultimately diagnosed with desmoplastic small round cell tumor (DSRCT)

Gianna noted that in addition to hair loss and bone pain, she has been experiencing constant nasal discharge since starting chemotherapy

She added, “My next cycle involves five days of hospital treatment, followed by two weeks at home.”

Gianna also mentioned experiencing hair loss and severe bone pain, along with a continuous runny nose associated with her chemotherapy sessions.

Prior to commencing treatment, she underwent in vitro fertilization (IVF) to safeguard her fertility, aspiring to become a mother in the future.

To provide support to others fighting the same rare cancer, Gianna actively shares her journey on social media platforms.

In one heartfelt post, she could be seen shaving her head, joined by her boyfriend, brother, and father in a show of solidarity, and in other posts, she highlights her commitment to maintaining her workout routine despite her circumstances.

She credits her positive outlook to spending time outdoors, regular walks, consulting a therapist, and surrounding herself with supportive family members.

Gianna has been sharing valuable insights from her cancer journey on social media to inspire others facing a similar battle

Looking forward, she reflects, “Initially, my mindset was purely fear-driven.”

“I thought, is this the end? How much time do I have left?”

However, lately she has found that focusing her mind on various aspects of life has been tremendously helpful.

“I feel less afraid and more optimistic about persevering,” Gianna expressed. “Focusing on other pursuits has instilled in me greater hope.”

“I believe it’s crucial to share my story, as it can inspire others who are facing similar challenges and offer them hope.”

“My wish is to provide as much hope as possible to those enduring the same fight.”