Rachel’s Story: 'If Something Doesn’t Feel Right, Keep Pushing for Answers'

When Rachel was 21 years old, she began experiencing unexplained abdominal pain, the kind that didn’t just feel like “period problems.” A trip to the ER led to a diagnosis of endometriosis, two surgeries and two shocking revelations: Rachel had been born with only one ovary – and there was a tumor on it.

When her gynecological oncologist recommended a wait-and-see approach, Rachel felt a strong need for a second opinion – and a more proactive plan.

“It just wasn’t sitting well with me that I’d had two surgeries, didn’t feel much better, and was still walking around with this tumor,” says Rachel.

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That’s when she scheduled an appointment with Pamela Paley, MD, at Overlake’s Gynecologic Cancer Program. It was the turning point in her care.

When Rachel walked into her appointment with Dr. Paley, she immediately felt she was in good hands. First, Dr. Paley explained that Rachel’s symptoms had been caused all along by her tumor. Then, she made a strong recommendation: having surgery as soon as possible to remove the entire tumor.

The very next week, Dr. Paley performed a 5-hour robotic-assisted surgery to remove Rachel’s stage-3 borderline tumor – but not the ovary – in case Rachel wants to have a child someday. 

Dr. Paley also recommended Rachel harvest and freeze her eggs, in case future treatment requires removing her ovary.

“Dr. Paley has been amazing. She dug deeper, really listened and asked questions about my future. And now I have eggs on ice if I ever need them, which gives me incredible peace of mind.”

Today, at age 26, Rachel is thriving. She’s recently married and is building her career in marketing and continuing proactive follow-up care at Overlake. That care includes regular imaging and blood work to look for signs that her tumor has come back.

“People often say to me, ‘Wow, that’s a lot of appointments,’ but I’m happy to do it,” she says. “It helps me feel more relaxed, like we’ll catch anything early.”

Dr. Paley credits Rachel’s strength and determination.

“She’d already been through a lot when we met, but she never backed down. She asked smart questions, advocated for herself, and made tough decisions at a very young age.”

Rachel hopes sharing her story encourages others to trust their instincts.

“I tell people all the time: If something feels off in your body, speak up. Get a second opinion. Don’t stop until you feel confident in the answers,” she says.

September is Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month

 We are privileged to highlight Rachel's deeply personal cancer journey . Her resilience and hope are powerful reminders of the importance of awareness, education and support during times of challenge.

Trusted experts in gynecologic cancer care – by your side at every step

At Overlake Medical Center, patients like Rachel receive comprehensive, compassionate care. Our gynecologic cancer program brings advanced technology and fertility-preserving expertise to every case – including the most complex or rare ones. Whether you’re seeking genetic counseling, a second opinion, advanced treatment options or long-term monitoring, Overlake offers individualized care and a team that truly listens. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 425-635-3400.

“It's an honor to be able to intersect with people during a scary time and help them to understand all their options and what they can do. And I always let them know that I’ll walk alongside them at every step of the way – no matter how the chips fall.”  — Dr. Paley