For Jacqueline Zepeda, her triumph over thyroid cancer is one that leads back to family, faith, and expert doctors.
The symptoms that led Zepeda to start her search for an underlying condition were a storm of common signs. This list began with anxiety, difficulty swallowing, and high blood pressure. After an array of tests from her first reports of problems in late 2024, Zepeda's medical journey took a dramatic turn.
On November 9, 2024, Zepeda experienced a seizure that would become a pivotal moment in her diagnosis. Following emergency room tests, doctors discovered nodules on her throat and lungs. A series of medical procedures followed quickly; a biopsy on December 20 and a PET scan on December 24 ultimately confirmed her thyroid cancer diagnosis on December 29.
“I literally went to a dark place. I was questioning why this was happening to me and even found myself questioning my faith,” Zepeda said.
Initial shock wore off as the support of her husband, Simon Zepeda, and her five daughters reigned in to help give the longtime mother and supporter of her family the opportunity to lean on those around her.
Her medical journey led to an EBUS procedure in January to ensure that Zepeda’s cancer hadn’t spread. Fortunately, the cancer was localized, allowing the doctors to perform surgical intervention. On February 17, Zepeda underwent thyroid removal—a day her husband now calls her “new birthday.”
“I was petrified about the surgery. I was worried about losing my voice or my ability to eat,” Zepeda said.
Thankfully for Zepeda, the surgery was a full success with no unwanted side effects, allowing her to go home the very next day. More importantly, she experienced an unexpected sense of calm in the aftermath of the procedure. Zepeda has become an advocate for thyroid cancer awareness, highlighting the lack of public knowledge about this specific cancer. She emphasizes critical information many people don’t know, such as the potential radiation risks from dental X-rays and their impact on thyroid health.
In her recovery, she has a newfound appreciation for life’s small moments and gifts.
“The little things I took for granted — like driving or walking through a store without getting exhausted — now feel like incredible privileges,” Zepeda said.
With future goals of returning to an almost decade-old pastime of running and spending time with her now five grandchildren, ranging from as young as 5 months to 11 years old, the advice she shares with those facing a similar diagnosis rings loud and powerful.
“Find the strength within you. Dig deep, find your faith, and tell yourself, ‘I’m going to fight this. Nothing’s going to stop me,’” Zepeda said.
Her journey, like many who go through something this serious, is a testament to resilience, family support, and the power of self-belief. From a frightening diagnosis to successful treatment, Zepeda’s story is one of triumph, demonstrating that with the right medical care, support system, and personal determination, one can overcome significant health challenges.
Today, Zepeda considers herself blessed, given a new lease on life and a deeper appreciation for the moments that truly matter.