06/11/2026
This is Luz’s story — a story about trusting her instincts, advocating for herself, and refusing to stay silent when she knew something was wrong.
“I was constantly told that if I just lost weight, I’d feel better. But I knew my body, and I knew something wasn’t right.
I felt sluggish even though I had always been full of energy. I experienced bloating for long periods while eating less, sharp abdominal pains, and I suddenly developed a rash between my fingers and knuckles. Yet every appointment seemed to focus only on my weight instead of my symptoms.
Finally, I found an incredible internist who listened. That doctor referred me to a compassionate gynecologist who discovered ovarian cancer at Stage 1.
Someone finally looked beyond the number on the scale and heard what I was saying.
That experience changed me. I promised myself I would encourage others to trust themselves, speak up, and advocate for their health because we know our bodies better than anyone else.
I Picture Hope gave me the opportunity to share my story and showcase the strength it took to persevere, fight to be heard, and never stay quiet.
I know me — and IPH helped me show the world who I am.”