Brittanie Hamlin
In January of 2025, I began experiencing a nagging pain in my left mid-back. Within a week, the pain wrapped around to my front. I began to notice chest pain when eating and would get full quickly. Along with the discomfort came achiness, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes. For seven long weeks, I navigated our broken medical system — seven weeks of not being taken seriously, of insurance denials, and of unanswered questions. Despite being a PA, I had to fight for my own care. Finally, I paid out of pocket for the scan that would change everything: a diagnosis of an extremely rare, one-in-a-million cancer — stage 4 adrenal cortical carcinoma. This blog will dive into the fears and courage surrounding my diagnosis and treatment, the ins and outs of the broken medical system, fitness, maybe some sourdough and my journey with my faith. It also serves for information for others navigating this diagnosis. With it being so rare, it is easy to feel alone.
I am a devoted mom to two beautiful girls, a loving wife, and a compassionate PA who continues to work, determined to make a difference for my patients and to help others navigate the healthcare system that failed me. My message to others is simple but powerful: move your body, listen to it, and never ignore what your gut is telling you. Throughout this journey, the outpouring of love and support from the community has been incredible. Friends have become like family, showing up in ways that words can hardly capture.
Adrenal Courage 