By Kristina G. Aderhold

For Orfa Torres Olgin, from San Antonio, her cancer journey began with a weekend of severe cramping and persistent bleeding. Although she had noticed the bleeding prior to that weekend, she did not go to the doctor right away. After waiting as long as she could when the cramping hit, she was finally rushed to the emergency room, where the reality of her situation hit hard: she was diagnosed with uterine cancer. What followed was a difficult two-week hospital stay, filled with a barrage of tests and surgery to stabilize her condition.

The news grew more complicated when she learned her diagnosis was stage IV uterine cancer, rather than stage III which she had initially been told. Following a hysterectomy, Orfa encountered the frustrating reality of insurance delays. Those weeks of waiting were incredibly taxing, as she was acutely aware that every day without chemotherapy made it more difficult to fight the disease. When the approval finally arrived, she began her treatment with resolve, completing six rounds of chemotherapy. To her relief, a follow-up CT scan confirmed she was cancer free.

The Cancer Returns

Life took another unexpected turn when her insurance changed, requiring her to find a new oncologist. As part of her intake as a new patient, the doctor ordered a routine CT scan, which revealed fluid in her pelvis that required investigation. After an agonizing few months of uncertainty, a liquid biopsy in April 2024 confirmed that cancerous cells had indeed returned. She was faced with the prospect of going through the entire process all over again. Leaning into her inner strength, Orfa began the fight for a second time.

This second course of treatment targeted radiation for five days in June of 2024 followed by six more rounds of chemotherapy. To ensure precision, she had three small blue dots tattooed along her bra line to mark the exact areas for the radiation.

Thankfully, she experienced no side effects from the radiation, and on October 31st, she reached a major milestone: she rang the bell to declare she was cancer-free.

Finding Community and Connection

Since then, Orfa has navigated the natural ups and downs of survivorship. While she still experiences moments of fear and anxiety about the future, she continues to move forward, receiving maintenance infusions of Jemperli every six weeks.

To keep herself grounded and active, she relies on her beloved Siberian Husky called Kira, who keeps her moving with two 45-minute walks every day. Additionally, Orfa became a member of ThriveWell’s Diva program in January 2025. She finds genuine joy in the exercise classes, support groups, and artful healing sessions.

The camaraderie she has found within this community has been invaluable to her recovery. “ThriveWell is great,” Orfa says. “Everyone has been so supportive.”

ThriveWell also provided essential financial assistance during her second diagnosis, a resource she describes as incredibly helpful. Reflecting on her experience, Orfa strongly encourages others to listen to their bodies and see a doctor immediately if they notice anything abnormal, rather than waiting like she did. Today Orfa is cancer free and will be classified as in remission after 5 years of being cancer free. She is mentally strong, physically active and is committed to continuing to thrive.

June is Uterine Cancer Awareness Month.
It is a vital time to raise awareness, honor survivors, and support those currently in the fight.

You can Make a Difference
Every dollar contributed to ThriveWell Cancer Foundation goes directly toward supporting patients and survivors. Your donations help fund critical patient assistance, such as transportation to appointments and gas cards, as well as free community wellness programs that allow patients to thrive despite their diagnosis. Support our mission and make a tangible difference in the lives of cancer patients like Orfa, please consider a donation today and make a difference.