Local woman battles cancer as young adult diagnoses climb nationwide

SPOKANE — Fewer young adults are dying from cancer, but more are being diagnosed with the disease according to the National Cancer Institute.

But this alarming trend is creating new challenges for patients who often lack the financial resources to handle treatment costs.

The statistics became personal for 23-year-old Madison Smith last October when she visited urgent care to check a small lump in her armpit.

“They got me an ultrasound, which led to a biopsy, which led to cancer diagnosis of Hodgkin’s lymphoma,” Smith said.

Since then, Madison has undergone chemotherapy treatments at an infusion center in Multicare’s Deaconess Hospital Cancer and Blood Specialty Center, with appointments lasting three to four hours each session.

“It’s very strenuous on my body. Usually, I’m in bed for a couple days,” Madison Smith said.

“This is not a simple once and done type of thing. This really affects every aspect of someone’s life,” said Dr. Brett Gourley, Madison’s physician.

Recent studies show a 1-2 percent increase in 14 cancer types among young adults, which is prompting doctors to begin screening patients at younger ages.

“I think there’s other lifestyle factors, unfortunately. We are seeing the number of cancers that are being diagnosed younger and younger: colorectal cancers, stomach cancer, pancreatic cancer, breast cancer,” Gourley said.

Beyond the medical challenges, young adult cancer patients face unique financial obstacles that older patients may not encounter.

“They’re working. They don’t have savings. They’re not on Medicare. This can be quite devastating for them,” Gourley said.

Madison’s colleagues at the clothing company Off-Road Vixens responded to her diagnosis by creating a fundraising initiative. The company designed a t-shirt with the slogan “Fight like a vixen,” with proceeds helping Madison and her family cover treatment costs.

“I was almost in tears because I felt so loved,” Smith said.

Members of Madison’s medical care team showed their support by wearing the fundraising shirts during her treatments.

“I know that they’ve got her. So, that’s always very heartwarming and feels good to know that she’s got that,” said Lorri Smith, Madison’s mother.

Madison Smith’s final chemotherapy treatment is scheduled for late April.

Those interested in purchasing shirt can find them here, along with the GoFund me donation site.

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