Sasha's story
My name is Sasha Bliss, and I am from North Carolina. In 2017, at just 29 years old, I was diagnosed with adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) in my right submandibular gland. My journey began two years earlier with something that seemed relatively harmless - a lump in my neck.
In 2015, I noticed a lump while I was sick. At the time, I was told it was likely a swollen lymph node. However, after several weeks, the lump was still there. I decided to see an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist, who believed it was a blocked salivary gland and prescribed antibiotics.
As time passed, the lump never went away.
Fast forward to 2017, when I noticed that the lump had grown larger. I sought further medical attention at UNC in Raleigh, North Carolina. A CT scan revealed that the lump was located on my salivary gland, and a biopsy confirmed that it was a tumor.
On May 5, 2017, I underwent surgery to remove my right submandibular gland. Following surgery, the tumor was sent for further testing, and I received the news that no one ever wants to hear: It was cancer.
The tumor measured 2 centimeters and was classified as stage I. Thankfully, the surgical margins were clear, and there was no evidence that the cancer had spread. I was then referred to UNC Rex Oncology for further treatment.
I underwent 33 radiation treatments over the course of six and a half weeks. Radiation was challenging, both physically and emotionally. I lost my sense of taste for approximately three and a half months and lost 40 pounds during treatment.
The effects of radiation did not end when my treatments were completed. My thyroid was permanently damaged, and I now require medication to replace the hormones it can no longer produce adequately. It is a lifelong reminder of what my body has endured.
Looking back on my journey, I am incredibly thankful that my cancer was discovered at an early stage and that I was able to receive treatment. However, I also think about the two years between first noticing that lump and receiving my diagnosis.
That experience taught me the importance of listening to my body, asking questions, and continuing to seek answers when something does not seem right.
If there is one message I hope others take away from my story, it is this: Be your own advocate.
As women, we are often reminded of the importance of checking our breasts for lumps and changes. I want to encourage everyone to pay attention to their necks, too. A persistent or growing lump should never be ignored. While not every lump is cancer, any unexplained change deserves medical attention.
If you notice something unusual, speak with your doctor. If it does not go away, follow up. Do not be afraid to ask questions, seek a second opinion, or advocate for additional testing when appropriate.
I share my story in the hope that it will encourage someone else to listen to their body and seek the answers they need.
Cancer changed my life, but it also gave me a reason to speak up and raise awareness about a rare disease that many people have never heard of.
My hope is that sharing my experience with adenoid cystic carcinoma will help someone else recognize a warning sign, seek medical attention, and know that their concerns deserve to be heard.
With gratitude and hope,
Sasha Bliss