The Strength of Instincts
What happens when you know something is wrong with your body but no one will listen?
We speak with Jackie Garcia, a young adult cancer survivor whose persistence led to a life-saving diagnosis. For five years Jackie searched for answers while dealing with severe symptoms including rapid weight gain, intense pain, numbness in her legs, and overwhelming fatigue. Doctor after doctor dismissed her concerns and told her to simply lose weight or manage anxiety. At age 31, a CT scan finally revealed the truth. Jackie had a 20-pound tumor wrapped around multiple organs.
After connecting with specialists at MD Anderson Cancer Center, Jackie underwent major surgery to remove the tumor. The moment she heard the words “you have cancer,” she felt something unexpected: relief. At last, she had proof that she had been right about her body all along.
Jackie shares how that experience has changed how she sees herself and her life. She learned to trust her instincts, show herself compassion, and slow down after years of pushing herself through work and stress. She also discovered the power of community through young adult cancer support groups and survivorship connections.
Her message is simple and powerful. Trust your body. Ask for help. And remember that hope can still exist even in the hardest moments of a cancer journey.
Highlights:
-Trusting Your Body – Jackie explains how years of unexplained symptoms pushed her to keep advocating for answers even when doctors dismissed her concerns.
- The Power of One Doctor Who Listens – A visiting physician ordered the CT scan that finally revealed the tumor and changed everything.
- The Moment of Diagnosis – Jackie describes the surprising sense of relief she felt when she finally received an answer.
- Life After Cancer Changes Priorities – Her experience shifted her mindset away from career obsession toward rest, self-compassion, and meaningful relationships.
- Why Community Matters During Cancer – Support groups and survivor connections became a critical part of her emotional healing and survivorship.
Mentioned Resources:
CanCare- www.cancare.org
Book – www.cancare.org/hopebook
About the Guest:
Jackie Garcia is a 31-year-old retroperitoneal liposarcoma survivor and advocate. She spent five years searching for answers before being diagnosed with a rare cancer and a 20-pound tumor she named “Tina”. Through it all, she discovered strength in humor, healing in community, and the profound truth that her body, even in its most vulnerable state, was still worthy of love. Now living with no evidence of cancer, Jackie shares her journey with tenderness and hope, walking alongside other young adults navigating cancer and reminding them they are never alone on this uncertain road.
