“I Thought I Was Dying” – Maya on Cancer, Panic Attacks, and Finding Hope

Life on Pause

Maya, a 15-year-old high school student, shares the deeply personal story of how her childhood fear of getting cancer became real. Diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), she takes us through the moment she first felt symptoms, her terrifying ER experience, and how the diagnosis changed everything.

In this episode of Life on Pause, Maya also opens up about her lifelong struggle with anxiety and depression, how cancer affected her entire family—including her dog—and why mental health care has been just as important as physical treatment. Her honesty, resilience, and wit shine through, even as she prepares for a bone marrow transplant and a long recovery ahead.

This is a story of vulnerability, survival, and strength. Thank you, Maya, for sharing your truth.

Topics Covered:

• First symptoms & the misdiagnosis that delayed her care
• What it feels like to be told you have leukemia at 15
• Struggles with panic attacks and mental health
• Navigating family stress during treatment
• Living in isolation and the healing power of pets
• Rebuilding strength while preparing for transplant

About Life on Pause:

Life on Pause is a podcast for and by young adults with cancer. Produced by Penn State Health’s AYA Oncology Program, each episode is rooted in honest storytelling and community connection. Our content is reviewed by medical and psychosocial experts to ensure accuracy and care.

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💻 Website: https://www.lifeonpausepodcast.com/

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